Study Notes
Diseases can be classified based on their duration and cause, such as chronic and acute diseases, or infectious and non-infectious diseases. They are caused by various factors including pathogens, poor nutrition, genetics, pollution, and poverty.
- Chronic Disease — a long-lasting condition that can be controlled but not cured. Example: Diabetes, Cancer, AIDS
- Acute Disease — a condition with a rapid onset and a short course. Example: Common Cold, Diarrhoea, Malaria
- Pathogens — microorganisms that cause disease. Example: Bacteria, Viruses, Protozoa, Fungi, Worms
- Infectious Disease — diseases caused by pathogens that can spread from one person to another. Example: Tuberculosis, Malaria
- Non-infectious Disease — diseases not caused by pathogens and do not spread from person to person. Example: Cancer, Diabetes
- Vector — an organism that transmits pathogens from one host to another. Example: Mosquitoes spreading Malaria, Dengue
Exam Tips
Key Definitions to Remember
- Chronic Disease
- Acute Disease
- Pathogens
- Infectious Disease
- Non-infectious Disease
- Vector
Common Confusions
- Confusing chronic and acute diseases based on duration
- Misunderstanding the difference between infectious and non-infectious diseases
Typical Exam Questions
- What is a chronic disease? A long-lasting condition that can be controlled but not cured.
- How do pathogens spread through air? By sneezing or coughing, spreading microbes to healthy individuals.
- What is a vector in the context of diseases? An organism that transmits pathogens from one host to another.
What Examiners Usually Test
- Understanding of disease classification based on duration and cause
- Knowledge of how diseases spread and the role of vectors
- Ability to identify examples of infectious and non-infectious diseases