Communicable & Non-Communicable Disease
Defining health
- The World Health Organisation (WHO) defines health as 'a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity'
- This means that health is not just dependent on whether an individual is physically sick or not.
- There are lots of factors that should be considered when assessing the health of an individual which includes mental health as well as the level of social support in place
Communicable diseases
- Communicable diseases are caused by microorganisms called pathogens which can spread between individuals
- E.g. chickenpox, a common childhood disease, is caused by a viral pathogen called the varicella-zoster virus
Communicable Diseases Table
Non-communicable diseases
- Non-communicable diseases are not caused by pathogens and cannot be passed on between individuals
- Their effects on health tend to be longer-lasting
- Examples include: asthma, CHD and most cancers
- The risk of developing non-communicable diseases may be increased by certain factors (including diet, stress and life situations) as these factors may have a profound effect on both physical and mental health
- Eating a balanced diet that provides the right amount of energy and nutrients helps maintain good health whereas a poor diet can lead to deficiencies, obesity, diabetes and poor mental health
- Constantly being under stress can lead to cardiovascular issues (such as high blood pressure, increasing the risk of CHD) and poor mental health
- Where a person lives and their income can have a profound impact on health - this affects the standard of healthcare that is accessible to them (and what they can afford), what food they buy etc.
Risk Factors in Non-Communicable Diseases Table
Exam Tip
Not ALL microorganisms are harmful! In fact, the vast majority are either beneficial to humans or do no harm.
Always remember, mental health is as important as physical health.
Think of communicable diseases as those which are caught!
Cancer is not a genetic disease, but some individuals may have a genetic predisposition that increases their likelihood of developing specific cancers.