Understanding Common Non-Infectious Diseases
Key Non-Infectious Diseases
Cancer
Cancer results from an abnormal proliferation of cells caused by DNA modifications. For instance, the p53 protein normally halts cell division, allowing time for DNA repair or triggering apoptosis (programmed cell death) if damage is irreparable. When this process fails, cells with damaged DNA can survive and multiply uncontrollably, forming tumors. These tumors can grow, press on organs, and spread (metastasize) through blood or lymph to other parts of the body. Common treatments include surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy.
Endocrine, Nutritional, and Metabolic Diseases
- Endocrine Disorders: Examples include diabetes and thyroid disorders.
- Metabolic Disorders: Such as hypercholesterolemia (high cholesterol).
- Nutritional Disorders: Including anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa.
Anorexia Nervosa
A severe eating disorder characterized by an intense fear of gaining weight and a distorted body image. It is often associated with depression and low self-esteem. Minimal food intake leads to significant weight loss, accompanied by behavioral, affective, and physiological changes. Treatment typically requires psychiatric intervention.
Bulimia Nervosa
Closely linked to anorexia (many patients experience aspects of both), bulimia involves recurrent episodes of compulsive overeating (binging) followed by compensatory behaviors like self-induced vomiting, driven by guilt and excessive concern about body weight.
Cardiovascular Diseases
These diseases affect the heart and blood vessels.
Stroke
Occurs when the brain suddenly stops receiving oxygen, either due to a blood clot (thrombosis) or a ruptured blood vessel (hemorrhage). If the affected brain area is large or controls vital functions, a stroke can be fatal. Survivors may have lasting impairments, though rehabilitation can sometimes lead to partial or full recovery.
Heart Attack (Myocardial Infarction)
Happens when coronary arteries become blocked, cutting off oxygen supply to a part of the heart muscle, causing it to die. The consequences depend on the extent of the damage, ranging from minor heart failure to death.
Arteriosclerosis
Characterized by the thickening and hardening of artery walls. This narrows the arterial passage (lumen), increasing blood pressure. It is associated with aging and the buildup of cholesterol plaques. Arteriosclerosis is closely related to hypertension, angina pectoris, myocardial infarction, and stroke.
Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)
Occurs when the pressure exerted by blood on artery walls exceeds established limits. It is often asymptomatic but, if untreated, significantly increases the risk of heart, brain, and kidney problems.
Mental Illnesses
A diverse group of disorders altering cognitive and affective processes. Mental illnesses are common, have a significant socioeconomic impact, and are a frequent cause of disability. They are often chronic and typically grouped into categories such as:
- Psychotic disorders
- Organic mental disorders
- Affective (mood) disorders
- Neurosis
- Anxiety disorders
Degenerative Diseases
These diseases involve progressive damage to organs and tissues, altering their normal function, often for reasons not fully understood. Many patients eventually become dependent on care.
Alzheimer’s Disease
A progressive and terminal illness, usually affecting people over 65. Patients experience loss of recent memory, behavioral changes, and eventually dementia, leading to dependence.
Parkinson’s Disease
Affects neurons responsible for controlling and coordinating movement. Patients typically exhibit tremors, muscle stiffness, slow movement, and changes in posture and gait. There is no cure, but palliative treatments can manage symptoms.
Other Degenerative Diseases
Other examples include multiple sclerosis, osteoarthritis, fibromyalgia, and type 2 diabetes. The future treatment of many degenerative diseases may involve gene therapy.