Study Notes
Diseases can be classified based on their duration and cause, and they can spread through various means such as air, food, water, direct and indirect contact, and vectors.
- Disease — A state of being uncomfortable due to disturbed ease. Example: A baby suffering from diarrhoea.
- Chronic Disease — A long-lasting disease that persists over time. Example: Diabetes, Cancer, AIDS.
- Acute Disease — A disease with a rapid onset and short duration. Example: Common Cold, Diarrhoea, Malaria.
- Infectious Disease — Caused by pathogens and can spread from one person to another. Example: Tuberculosis, Pneumonia.
- Non-infectious Disease — Not caused by pathogens and does not spread between people. Example: Goitre, Cancer, Diabetes.
- Pathogens — Microbes responsible for causing diseases. Example: Bacteria, Viruses, Fungi, Protozoa, Worms.
- Vector — An animal that carries and transmits pathogens to humans. Example: Mosquitoes spreading Malaria and Dengue.
Exam Tips
Key Definitions to Remember
- Disease: A state of being uncomfortable due to disturbed ease.
- Chronic Disease: Long-lasting disease.
- Acute Disease: Short-term disease with rapid onset.
- Infectious Disease: Caused by pathogens and spreads between people.
- Non-infectious Disease: Not caused by pathogens and does not spread.
- Pathogens: Microbes causing diseases.
- Vector: Animal transmitting pathogens.
Common Confusions
- Difference between infectious and non-infectious diseases.
- How vectors differ from direct contact in disease transmission.
Typical Exam Questions
- What is a mechanical barrier to pathogens? Hairs in the nose
- Which blood component is destroyed in people who are HIV positive? Lymphocytes
- Campylobacter is a bacterium that can cause food poisoning. Which word describes Campylobacter? Pathogens
What Examiners Usually Test
- Understanding of disease classification based on duration and cause.
- Knowledge of how diseases spread through different means.
- Ability to identify examples of pathogens and vectors.