Disease Interactions
Biology: AQA GCSE Higher, topic 2.4.2
Disease Interaction
Different diseases can interact with one another (act together), leading to a spiral of declining health. For example:
Immune system
- A disease that suppresses the immune system (e.g. HIV) makes individuals more susceptible (likely) to catching other infectious diseases.
Cancer
- Viruses occupying cells can stimulate (bring about) cancers.
Mental health
- Physical problems can negatively impact upon an individual’s mental health.
Allergies
- Allergies (e.g. asthma and skin rashes) can be triggered by an immune reaction to a pathogen (microorganism that can cause disease).
Test yourself on Disease Interactions
Which of the following are true of disease interactions?
What is the best example of one disease making a person more likely to catch another?
What is the best example of a virus occupying cells increasing a person's risk of disease?
What is the best example of a physical health problem negatively affecting a person's mental health?
What is the best example of an allergy triggered by an immune reaction to a pathogen?