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23 Nov 2025

102

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Understanding Health and Disease: Key Factors Explained

user profile picture

Harriet Gee @harrietgee

Your health isn't just about avoiding the flu or a broken leg - it's way more complex than... Show more

health and disease
Diseases are a major cause of ill health
Health is the state of physical and mental well-being. Diseases are often respon

Health and Disease Basics

Health means feeling good both physically and mentally - it's not just about not being sick. When diseases mess with this balance, they become the main culprits behind poor health.

There are two main types of diseases you need to know about. Communicable diseases are the ones that spread from person to person, like when someone coughs near you and you catch their cold. These sneaky illnesses are caused by bacteria, viruses, parasites, and fungi - think measles or malaria.

Non-communicable diseases work differently - they can't jump between people but they're often more serious long-term problems. These include asthma, cancer, and heart disease, and they typically develop slowly over time.

Key Point Communicable = spreads between people; Non-communicable = doesn't spread but lasts longer

How Different Diseases Work Together

Here's where it gets interesting - diseases don't always work alone. If your immune system is already struggling, you're basically rolling out the red carpet for communicable diseases like flu because your body can't fight back properly.

Some cancers actually start because of infections. Certain hepatitis viruses can camp out in your liver cells for years, eventually increasing your chances of liver cancer. Similarly, HPV infections can lead to cervical cancer in women.

Even your existing conditions can gang up on you. Infections might trigger allergic reactions or make asthma symptoms much worse than usual.

Beyond Just Diseases

Your health isn't only about avoiding germs - loads of other stuff matters too. A rubbish diet will leave you feeling rough both physically and mentally, whilst constant stress can seriously mess with your mental health.

Your life situation plays a massive role as well. Having access to medicines, healthy food, or even basic things like condoms to prevent sexually transmitted diseases can make or break your overall health.

health and disease
Diseases are a major cause of ill health
Health is the state of physical and mental well-being. Diseases are often respon

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Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.

Where can I download the Knowunity app?

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The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good

Thomas R

iOS user

Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.

Basil

Android user

This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

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very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.

Rohan U

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I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.

Xander S

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THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

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This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now

Paul T

iOS user

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good

Thomas R

iOS user

Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.

Basil

Android user

This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.

David K

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The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.

Rohan U

Android user

I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.

Xander S

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now

Paul T

iOS user

 

Biology

102

23 Nov 2025

2 pages

Understanding Health and Disease: Key Factors Explained

user profile picture

Harriet Gee

@harrietgee

Your health isn't just about avoiding the flu or a broken leg - it's way more complex than that! Understanding the difference between diseases that spread and those that don't will help you make sense of everything from why some... Show more

health and disease
Diseases are a major cause of ill health
Health is the state of physical and mental well-being. Diseases are often respon

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Health and Disease Basics

Health means feeling good both physically and mentally - it's not just about not being sick. When diseases mess with this balance, they become the main culprits behind poor health.

There are two main types of diseases you need to know about. Communicable diseases are the ones that spread from person to person, like when someone coughs near you and you catch their cold. These sneaky illnesses are caused by bacteria, viruses, parasites, and fungi - think measles or malaria.

Non-communicable diseases work differently - they can't jump between people but they're often more serious long-term problems. These include asthma, cancer, and heart disease, and they typically develop slowly over time.

Key Point: Communicable = spreads between people; Non-communicable = doesn't spread but lasts longer

How Different Diseases Work Together

Here's where it gets interesting - diseases don't always work alone. If your immune system is already struggling, you're basically rolling out the red carpet for communicable diseases like flu because your body can't fight back properly.

Some cancers actually start because of infections. Certain hepatitis viruses can camp out in your liver cells for years, eventually increasing your chances of liver cancer. Similarly, HPV infections can lead to cervical cancer in women.

Even your existing conditions can gang up on you. Infections might trigger allergic reactions or make asthma symptoms much worse than usual.

Beyond Just Diseases

Your health isn't only about avoiding germs - loads of other stuff matters too. A rubbish diet will leave you feeling rough both physically and mentally, whilst constant stress can seriously mess with your mental health.

Your life situation plays a massive role as well. Having access to medicines, healthy food, or even basic things like condoms to prevent sexually transmitted diseases can make or break your overall health.

health and disease
Diseases are a major cause of ill health
Health is the state of physical and mental well-being. Diseases are often respon

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

We thought you’d never ask...

What is the Knowunity AI companion?

Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.

Where can I download the Knowunity app?

You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.

Is Knowunity really free of charge?

That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.

1

Smart Tools NEW

Transform this note into: ✓ 50+ Practice Questions ✓ Interactive Flashcards ✓ Full Mock Exam ✓ Essay Outlines

Mock Exam
Quiz
Flashcards
Essay

Similar content

Communicable and Non-Communicable Disease

Biology Health and Disease GCSE

BiologyBiology
11

Understanding Health & Disease

Explore key concepts of health and disease, including communicable and non-communicable diseases, pathogens, and prevention strategies. This summary covers essential information for GCSE Edexcel Biology, focusing on diseases like cholera, HIV/AIDS, and malaria, along with their symptoms and prevention methods.

BiologyBiology
10

Cardiovascular Disease Overview

Explore key concepts of cardiovascular diseases, including TIAs, strokes, and risk factors. This summary covers non-communicable diseases, pathogens, and the role of antibiotics in treatment. Ideal for EDEXCEL revision, it provides essential insights into disease prevention and management.

BiologyBiology
9

Correlation in Health Risks

Explore the relationships between lifestyle choices and health outcomes in this engaging quiz. Analyze data on alcohol consumption, liver disease, and risk factors for Type 2 Diabetes. Ideal for GCSE Science students preparing for AQA exams, this resource covers key concepts such as non-communicable diseases, obesity, and disease prevention. Enhance your understanding of how lifestyle impacts health.

BiologyBiology
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Health & Disease Overview

Explore key concepts in GCSE Biology related to Health and Disease, including disease classification, risk factors, cancer development, and the impact of lifestyle choices. This summary covers communicable and non-communicable diseases, the role of drugs, and the importance of clinical trials in treatment efficacy. Ideal for exam preparation and understanding health issues.

BiologyBiology
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Metabolic Pathways Overview

Explore the intricacies of metabolic pathways in cellular metabolism, including enzyme-substrate interactions, types of inhibition (competitive, non-competitive, feedback), and the roles of anabolic and catabolic processes. This summary provides essential insights into key concepts of metabolism, enzyme activity, and regulation, tailored for Higher Human Biology students.

BiologyBiology
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Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.

Students love us — and so will you.

4.9/5

App Store

4.8/5

Google Play

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good

Thomas R

iOS user

Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.

Basil

Android user

This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.

Rohan U

Android user

I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.

Xander S

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now

Paul T

iOS user

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good

Thomas R

iOS user

Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.

Basil

Android user

This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.

Rohan U

Android user

I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.

Xander S

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now

Paul T

iOS user