Diseases a disordered or incorrectly functioning organ, part, structure, or system of the body resulting from the effect of genetic or developmental errors, infection, poisons, nutritional deficiency or imbalance, toxicity, or unfavorable environmental factors; illness; sickness; ailment.

Noninfectious Diseases Noninfectious Diseases – Diseases/Conditions that are not spread from person to person or other living things. Examples: allergies, asthma, heart disease, diabetes, cancer

Allergies An allergy is a disorder in which the immune system is overly sensitive to a substance not normally found in the body. Allergen – any substance that causes an allergy Examples: pollen, mold, medicine, foods, contact, pets, etc. Histamine – a chemical produced by the body during an allergic response when lymphocytes (white blood cells) encounter an allergen (causes itching, sneezing and watery eyes)

Allergies Cont. The best strategy to keep from having an allergic reaction is to avoid the substance to which you are allergic Some people develop Asthma– a disorder in which the respiratory passages narrow significantly in response to an allergy.

Diabetes Diabetes is a condition in which the pancreas does not produce enough insulin or the body cells aren’t using insulin properly. Insulin – a chemical that enables body cells to take in glucose from the blood and use it for energy. Effects – lose weight, feel weak, and hungry all the time, excessive thirst Diabetes is treated with insulin injections (Type I), diet, weight control, and exercise (Type II).

Cancer Cancer is a disease in which cells multiply uncontrollably over and over, destroying healthy tissue in the process. May cause tumors – abnormal tissue masses. (Not all tumors are cancerous) Causes of Cancer Include: Some Genetic (Inherited) Links Carcinogens – Substances or factors found in the environment that can cause cancer (like tar in cigarette smoke and UV light)

Cancer Cont. Treatments: Surgery to remove cancer cells/tumors, Radiation (use of high-energy waves) Drug Therapy (Chemotherapy) uses medicine/drugs to kill cancer cells, but it also damage healthy cells. Prevention: Avoid carcinogens Eat a low-fat diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables Get regular medical checkups

Asthma Asthma – a disorder in which the respiratory passages narrow Symptoms – wheezing and shortness of breath People with allergies often develop asthma.