Disease
Live, reproduce, die Biology |
Life as we know it |
Divide and multiply |
Great Apes |
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
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
- ↑ Encyclopedia Britannica: disease
- ↑ American Psychological Association: Stress Weakens the Immune System.
- ↑ What is Pathology?, McGill Department of Pathology