Communicable and Non Communicable Diseases
Communicable diseases are infections that can be transmitted
from one person to another or from an animal to a person. These diseases are
caused by microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. Some
examples of communicable diseases include the flu, HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, and
malaria.
On the other hand, non-communicable diseases are not caused
by infectious agents and cannot be transmitted from one person to another.
These diseases are often chronic and long-lasting, and are usually caused by
lifestyle choices, environmental factors, or genetic predisposition. Examples
of non-communicable diseases include heart disease, diabetes, cancer, and
stroke.
Both communicable and non-communicable diseases can have
serious health consequences and impact quality of life. However, communicable
diseases can often be prevented or treated with vaccines, antibiotics, or
antiviral medications, while non-communicable diseases often require lifestyle
changes, medication, or other medical interventions.
Difference Between Communicable and Non Communicable Diseases
|
Communicable
Diseases |
Non-Communicable
Diseases |
|
Caused by
infectious agents such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites |
Not caused
by infectious agents |
|
Can be
transmitted from one person to another or from an animal to a person |
Cannot be
transmitted from one person to another |
|
Examples
include the flu, HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, and malaria |
Examples
include heart disease, diabetes, cancer, and stroke |
|
Prevention
often involves vaccination, hygiene, and public health measures |
Prevention
often involves lifestyle changes such as healthy eating, regular exercise,
and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption |
|
Treatment
often involves antibiotics, antiviral medications, or antifungal medications |
Treatment
often involves medication, surgery, or other medical interventions |
|
Outbreaks
can occur and spread rapidly, leading to epidemics or pandemics |
Not
typically associated with outbreaks or pandemics |
|
Can have
acute or chronic symptoms |
Usually
chronic and long-lasting |
|
Although
communicable diseases can affect anyone, some groups of people may be more
vulnerable to them than others, including young children, elderly
individuals, and those with compromised immune systems. |
Although
non-communicable diseases can affect anyone, certain factors such as
genetics, lifestyle choices, and environmental conditions may increase the
risk of developing them. |
|
Can be a
public health concern, especially in low-income countries with limited access
to healthcare and sanitation |
Can be a
public health concern, especially in high-income countries where they are
leading causes of death and disability |
Examples of Communicable and Non Communicable Diseases
|
Communicable
Diseases |
Non-Communicable
Diseases |
|
Influenza |
Cardiovascular
disease |
|
HIV/AIDS |
Cancer |
|
Tuberculosis |
Diabetes |
|
Malaria |
Alzheimer's
disease |
|
Hepatitis |
Chronic
obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) |
|
Measles |
Asthma |
|
Polio |
Osteoporosis |
|
Dengue
fever |
Parkinson's
disease |
Trick to remember Names of Communicable Diseases?
"BIG MC LIT"
B: Bacterial meningitis
I: Influenza
G: Gonorrhea
M: Measles, Malaria, Mumps
C: Chlamydia, Chickenpox
L: Leprosy
I: Impetigo
T: Tuberculosis
Trick to remember Names of Non Communicable Diseases?
"CLAP PAD".
C: Cardiovascular disease
L: Lung disease (e.g. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease,
asthma)
A: Alzheimer's disease
P: Parkinson's disease
P: Diabetes
A: Arthritis
D: Depression