Human Health: Infections, Diseases, and Prevention Strategies
C.M.C.
Health and Disease
Health is the state where the body functions normally. All organs and systems work properly. A disease occurs when a body function is altered, resulting in a disorder. Symptoms are the changes that occur in the body during a disease. Public health can be improved by reducing environmental risks such as unsafe water, air pollution, malnutrition, dangerous substances, indoor air pollution, and trauma from accidents.
Infection
Infection is the entry of a microorganism (e.g., bacteria, virus) into a living being. Many organisms are symbiotic and harmless, but pathogenic species harm the host.
Preventing Infections
Main actions to prevent infections include disinfection, sterilization, and vaccination. Disinfection destroys pathogens to prevent spread. Sterilization destroys all life forms, including resistant spores, making a material aseptic. Antisepsis uses chemicals to reduce pathogens on the skin. Vaccines are antigen preparations that trigger antibody production.
Treating Infections
The immune system fights infections using defensive cells. Sometimes, antibiotics are needed to inhibit bacterial growth (they don’t work against viruses). Antiserums are purified serums containing antibodies from a person or animal that has fought an infection. Interferon is a substance synthesized by virus-infected cells to prevent viral entry into nearby cells.
Pandemics
Pandemics are diseases affecting a large geographical area (e.g., AIDS, SARS, bird flu). AIDS, caused by HIV, destroys white blood cells, weakening the immune system and making the body vulnerable to other infections. It is transmitted through bodily fluids.
Cancer
Cancer involves abnormal, uncontrolled cell growth, forming tumors that can spread. 80% of cancers are linked to external agents and can be prevented by changing habits. The European Code Against Cancer recommends a healthy diet (fiber and vitamins), avoiding smoking, regular exercise, limiting sun exposure, and complying with workplace carcinogen regulations.
Cardiovascular Diseases
Cardiovascular diseases affect the heart and blood vessels and are a leading cause of death. Causes include genetics, poor diet, physical inactivity, and tobacco use.
Mental Illnesses
Mental illnesses are brain chemistry disorders affecting thinking, mood, and social interactions. Most people with mental illness can manage symptoms with medication that provides the necessary brain chemicals.