Understanding Diseases: Causes, Symptoms & Prevention Explained

Types of Diseases

Take a look at the different types of diseases based on their transmission, causes and duration:

Based on Causes:

Infectious Diseases

Infectious diseases, commonly known as communicable diseases, are caused by harmful microorganisms, such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites. They spread through air, water, food, or direct contact with an infected person or animal. For example, COVID-19, dengue, influenza, HIV, etc.
Non-Infectious Diseases

Unlike infectious diseases, non-infectious or non-communicable diseases do not spread from person to person. Instead, they develop due to genetics, environmental factors, or lifestyle choices. For example, diabetes, heart diseases, and cancer.
Lifestyle Diseases

Lifestyle diseases result from poor or unhealthy lifestyle habits, such as poor diet, lack of physical activity, smoking, drinking, etc. These diseases develop over time but can have severe health consequences. For example, obesity, hypertension, stroke, etc.
Congenital Diseases

Congenital diseases are diseases present at birth that may or may not be inherited. They can result from genetic mutations, infections during pregnancy, or birth complications. For example, congenital heart defects, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, etc.
Deficiency Diseases

Deficiency diseases occur when the body lacks essential nutrients like vitamins and minerals. Poor diet, malnutrition, or digestive disorders can lead to these conditions. For example, anaemia, night blindness, rickets, etc.
Autoimmune Diseases

In autoimmune diseases, the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's healthy cells, organs or tissues. These diseases often require lifelong management with medication and lifestyle changes. For example, rheumatoid arthritis, type 1 diabetes, multiple sclerosis, etc.

Based on Duration:

Acute Diseases

Acute diseases develop suddenly and last for a short period, usually a few days to a few weeks. They often have severe symptoms but can be cured with proper treatment. For example, flu, common cold, food poisoning, pneumonia, etc.
Chronic Diseases

Chronic diseases develop slowly and last for a long time, often months to years. These conditions may not have immediate symptoms but can become severe over time. For example, diabetes, hypertension, arthritis, heart disease, etc.

Who is at Risk of Developing Diseases?

Here are the people who are at higher risk of developing diseases:

People with a family history of diseases
Senior citizens
People with unhealthy lifestyle
People with weakened immune system
People managing chronic illnesses
Workers exposed to hazardous environments
People with poor hygiene and sanitation access
Pregnant women
Young children and infants
People with mental health conditions

How to Prevent Contracting a Disease?

Take a look at some common tips to prevent contracting a disease:

Adopt a healthy lifestyle by exercising regularly and managing stress
Get timely vaccinations to protect against infections
Wash hands with soap and water frequently to prevent germ transmission
Use alcohol-based sanitiser when soap and water are unavailable
Include fruits, vegetables, and whole grains in your diet to boost immunity
Get 7-8 hours of quality sleep
Quit smoking and alcoholto reduce the risk of respiratory or chronic diseases
Avoid shaking hands with sick peopleand maintain social distancing
Apply insect repellent when stepping outdoors

FAQs

Q1. What are the common types of diseases?

Ans: The common types of diseases include infectious diseases, non-infectious diseases, lifestyle diseases, chronic diseases, and acute diseases.
Q2. What are the causes of diseases in humans?

Ans: Diseases in humans can be caused by infections, unhealthy lifestyle choices, genetic factors, or environmental conditions.
Q3. What is the main way to prevent disease?

Ans: The best way to prevent diseases is by maintaining a healthy lifestyle, eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and getting enough sleep.

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Disclaimer: The list mentioned is according to the alphabetical order of the insurance companies. Policybazaar does not endorse, rate or recommend any particular insurer or insurance product offered by any insurer. For complete list of insurers in India refer to the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India website www.irdai.gov.in