Human Diseases

Introduction

Human diseases can be caused by various factors such as infections, genetic mutations, environmental factors, and lifestyle choices. These diseases can affect different systems of the body and vary in severity from mild to life-threatening.

Types of Human Diseases

• Infectious Diseases: Caused by pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. Examples include tuberculosis, malaria, and HIV/AIDS.
• Non-Communicable Diseases: Caused by genetic factors, environmental influences, or lifestyle choices. Examples include cancer, diabetes, and heart diseases.
• Autoimmune Diseases: The immune system mistakenly attacks healthy body cells. Examples include rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and multiple sclerosis.
• Genetic Diseases: Caused by mutations in the genes. Examples include cystic fibrosis, sickle cell anemia, and Down syndrome.

Infectious Diseases

Infectious diseases are caused by harmful microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites that invade the body. These diseases can spread from person to person or through contaminated food, water, or air.

• Tuberculosis: Caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis, primarily affects the lungs.
• Malaria: Caused by Plasmodium parasites, transmitted by Anopheles mosquitoes.
• HIV/AIDS: Caused by the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), which weakens the immune system.

Non-Communicable Diseases

Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are not transmitted from one person to another. They are often caused by genetic factors, environmental influences, or unhealthy lifestyle choices.

• Cancer: Uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells in the body.
• Diabetes: A metabolic disease where the body is unable to regulate blood sugar levels properly.
• Cardiovascular Diseases: Diseases related to the heart and blood vessels, such as heart attack and stroke.

Prevention and Treatment

Prevention and treatment of diseases vary based on the type of disease. For infectious diseases, vaccination, good hygiene, and avoiding exposure are crucial. For non-communicable diseases, lifestyle changes such as a balanced diet, regular exercise, and regular medical checkups can reduce the risk.

• Vaccination: Prevents the spread of infectious diseases like polio, measles, and influenza.
• Healthy Lifestyle: Reduces the risk of non-communicable diseases like heart disease and diabetes.
• Medication: Required for treating diseases like diabetes, hypertension, and infections.

Previous Year Questions

• SSC CHSL 2020: What is the main cause of malaria?
  • A. Bacteria
  • B. Virus
  • C. Parasite
  • D. Fungus

  Correct Answer: C. Parasite

• RRB JE 2019: Which of the following is a non-communicable disease?
  • A. Tuberculosis
  • B. Malaria
  • C. Cancer
  • D. Influenza

  Correct Answer: C. Cancer

• HSSC CET 2021: HIV/AIDS primarily affects which part of the human body?
  • A. Respiratory system
  • B. Immune system
  • C. Nervous system
  • D. Digestive system

  Correct Answer: B. Immune system