Classification of Diseases
Diseases are broadly classified into two categories based on how they are caused and spread.
1. Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs)
These diseases do not spread from person to person. They are caused by lifestyle, genetics, or environment.
- Causes: Unhealthy diet, lack of exercise, pollution, hormonal imbalance.
- Examples: Diabetes, Cancer, Heart Disease, Asthma, Obesity.
- Deficiency Diseases: Scurvy (Vitamin C), Anaemia (Iron), Goitre (Iodine).
2. Communicable Diseases (Infectious)
These diseases spread from an infected person to a healthy person. They are caused by Pathogens.
- Pathogens: Bacteria, Viruses, Fungi, Protozoa, Worms.
- Modes of Transmission:
- Air: Coughing/Sneezing (Common Cold, TB).
- Water/Food: Contamination (Cholera, Typhoid, Hepatitis A).
- Vectors (Insects): Mosquitoes (Malaria, Dengue).
- Direct Contact: Skin-to-skin or sharing items (Chickenpox).
Common Communicable Diseases Table
| Disease | Pathogen Type | Transmission | Preventive Measure |
|---|---|---|---|
| Common Cold | Virus | Air | Wash hands, mask up. |
| Tuberculosis (TB) | Bacteria | Air | Vaccination (BCG), isolation. |
| Cholera | Bacteria | Water/Food | Boil water, sanitary hygiene. |
| Malaria | Protozoa | Mosquito (Vector) | Mosquito nets, no stagnant water. |
| Ringworm | Fungi | Direct Contact | Personal hygiene, don’t share towels. |