Disease

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A disease is a condition in which the life of an organism does not proceed easily; Encyclopedia Britannica defines it as "a harmful deviation from the normal structural or functional state of an organism".[1] Modern medicine recognizes many, but not all, diseases as infections by bacteria, other microbes, or viruses. A more holistic approach blames disease on stress, since germs are everywhere (like radiation and toxins). This has some factual basis, though, as stress can weaken the immune system.[2]

The study of disease is called pathology.[3]

Germ Theory

See the main article on this topic: Germ theory

Germ theory is the scientific theory that many diseases are caused by germs, a catchall . Many forms of alternative medicine pre-suppose a different cause of illness and don't bother to verify whether those suppositions hold true. Vaccination is a great way to prevent many of the most deadly and debilitating diseases caused by viruses and bacteria.

Pathogens

See also

References