Flat Tire: Non-Communicable Diseases

DoctorCertain risk factors are associated with non-communicable diseases. A degenerative disease is characterized by progressive changes in cells and tissues. As these diseases develop, they cause further breakdowns of the body, and get increasingly worse. A chronic disease develops because of lifestyle behaviors or substances in a person’s environment. Chronic diseases are present over long periods of time.

Diseases that are present at birth are inherited or develop because of a birth defect. Such genetic disorders prevent the body from developing or functioning normally. Birth defects affect development of newborn babies. Typically cures do not exist for genetic disorders and birth defects.

Lifestyle behaviors that cause disease are referred to as risk factors. Risk factors increase a person’s chance of developing disease. Harmful lifestyle behaviors directly or indirectly result in various diseases. Having healthy lifestyle behaviors can prevent or control certain diseases and disorders.

Non-Communicable DiseasesNon-Communicable Diseases

Some non-communicable diseases are caused by the environment. Hazardous environments can include fumes from chemicals, second hand smoke, radon, and asbestos. In this interactivity, you will look into some common non-communicable diseases, and risk factors associated with them. Click the player button to begin.

View a printable version of the interactivity.

 

Because cancer is so prevalent, it is important to identify warning signs of the disease as early as possible. If you or someone you know experiences one or more of the following symptoms, see a physician as soon as possible.

  • Having a distinct change in the color, shape, size or thickness of a mole, mouth sore, or wart.
  • Developing a sore that does not go away.
  • Experiencing a noticeable change in bathroom habits.
  • Undergoing atypical bleeding.
  • Sustaining bothersome coughing, scratchy throat, or difficulty swallowing.
  • Identifying a lump.

 

Non-Communicable Diseases Review

Self-CheckContent PracticeNow that you have learned about non-communicable diseases, review your knowledge in this non-graded activity. Click the player button to get started.