Human Diseases — Set 3

Correct Answer: A. Cadmium

Itai-itai disease causes severe pain in the joints and spine due to cadmium poisoning that weakens the bones. The name literally translates to 'it hurts-it hurts' in Japanese. It occurred primarily due to industrial pollution in the Jinzu River basin.

Correct Answer: B. Niacin (B3)

Niacin deficiency leads to Pellagra, which is characterized by the 'four Ds': diarrhea, dermatitis, dementia, and death. It is often seen in regions where corn is the primary staple food without proper processing. Protein-rich foods like meat and peanuts are good sources of Niacin.

Correct Answer: B. Sleeping Sickness

African Sleeping Sickness is caused by Trypanosoma parasites transmitted by the tsetse fly. It disrupts the sleep cycle and can cause fatal neurological damage if left untreated. This disease is endemic to certain regions of sub-Saharan Africa.

Correct Answer: D. Bones

Osteoporosis makes bones brittle and more likely to fracture due to the loss of tissue. It is particularly common in elderly women after menopause. Adequate calcium and Vitamin D intake throughout life can help reduce the risk.

Correct Answer: A. Vitamin A

Vitamin A is crucial for maintaining clear corneas and healthy vision in low light. Xerophthalmia progresses from night blindness to permanent eye damage if the deficiency is severe. Yellow fruits, carrots, and spinach are rich in provitamin A (beta-carotene).

Correct Answer: A. Hypertension

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a condition where the force of blood against artery walls is too high. It is often linked to lifestyle factors like poor diet, lack of exercise, and stress. Unlike cholera or smallpox, it cannot be spread from person to person.

Correct Answer: D. Vibrio cholerae

Vibrio cholerae is a comma-shaped bacterium that causes severe watery diarrhea and dehydration. It is primarily spread through contaminated water or food in areas with poor sanitation. Rehydration therapy is the most critical life-saving treatment for cholera patients.

Correct Answer: D. Diphtheria

The Schick test determines whether a person is susceptible to diphtheria by observing the reaction to a small injection of toxin. Diphtheria is a bacterial infection that creates a thick covering in the back of the throat. It is now largely prevented by the DPT vaccine.

Correct Answer: B. Dengue

Dengue fever is a viral infection that causes high fever, severe headache, and joint pain. The Aedes aegypti mosquito usually bites during the day. Preventing water stagnation is the best way to control the breeding of these mosquitoes.

Correct Answer: D. Poor blood clotting

Vitamin K is essential for the synthesis of proteins required for blood coagulation. A deficiency leads to excessive bleeding and difficulty in healing wounds. It is naturally found in green leafy vegetables and produced by some gut bacteria.