We all know that no matter how hard we try, the disease can still affect us at some point in our lives. From the common cold to serious long-term illnesses, a wide variety of diseases can affect us. Fortunately, with advances in modern medicine and treatments, there are now more ways than ever to keep ourselves healthy and manage any diseases we may face.
What are communicable diseases?
Communicable diseases are transmissible illnesses, those that can be passed from one individual to another or between humans and animals. These ailments may arise from a range of sources including bacteria, viruses, parasites and fungi. Communicable diseases are often referred to as contagious or infectious. For instance, measles and malaria are prime examples of communicable illnesses. Measles and malaria are examples of communicable diseases.
What are non-communicable diseases?
Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are a leading cause of death and disability worldwide. They are long-term health conditions that cannot be passed from person to person, nor between animals and people. Asthma, cancer and coronary heart disease are some of the most common NCDs. These diseases cause significant morbidity and mortality, as well as a huge burden on individuals, families and society as a whole. Fortunately, there are ways to reduce the risk of developing NCDs through preventive measures such as healthy lifestyle choices.
The interaction of diseases
Complex interactions between diseases can have further implications on physical and mental health, resulting in consequences that may not be apparent at first glance. Here are just a few examples:
Other elements affecting your health
Good health is much more than just the absence of disease. Many other factors can influence your overall wellbeing, such as dietary choices, lifestyle habits, and environmental conditions. While it is important to take preventive measures against diseases and illnesses, it is equally important to be aware of all the factors that can affect your health in both positive and negative ways.
Here are some examples:
Non-Communicable Diseases can be very costly - both in terms of physical and financial aspects. All the more reason to take steps towards prevention of such diseases.
- Non-communicable diseases take a severe toll on humanity. These diseases claim the lives of tens of millions of people each year, causing immense distress to their families.
- People suffering from such illnesses often have to face reduced quality of life and shortened lifespan, impacting them and their family mentally as well as financially.
- NHS and other health services' expenditure on investigating and treating these conditions is remarkably high, having a huge impact on their budgets around the globe.
- Having to adjust a home to help a loved one with an illness may be financially demanding for families. This could include having to relocate or making modifications to the house. Additionally, if a family member has to give up their job due to disease or passing away, their income will take a hit.
Revision Quiz for Health and Disease
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