Factors That Influence Disease

 Discussion: Factors That Influence Disease

(Factors That Influence Disease)

Biological factors include genetics, which can predispose individuals to certain conditions, and age, which can influence disease susceptibility and severity. Gender can also play a role, with some diseases being more prevalent in one sex due to hormonal or physiological differences.

Environmental factors involve both physical and chemical exposures. Pollution, climate change, and exposure to toxic substances can increase the risk of diseases like cancer, respiratory disorders, and vector-borne diseases. Additionally, living conditions such as overcrowding and poor sanitation can facilitate the spread of infectious diseases.

Socio-economic factors are critical, as poverty and lack of access to healthcare can impede disease prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. Education and health literacy affect individuals’ ability to make informed health decisions and adhere to medical advice. Social determinants, including stress and social support, also impact mental and physical health.

Lifestyle factors include diet, physical activity, and behaviors such as smoking and alcohol consumption. Poor diet and sedentary lifestyle contribute to chronic diseases like obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases, while risky behaviors increase the likelihood of conditions such as liver disease and lung cancer.

Factors That Influence Disease

In clinical settings, some of the most common questions that patients ask are: “Why do I have this?”, “What caused this disorder?”, and “Will it ever go away?” These emotional questions can be difficult to ask and to answer. However, for patients to come to terms with their diagnoses and adhere to treatment plans, they must have an understanding of factors that might have caused or continue to impact their disorders. As an advanced practice nurse, it is important that you are able to explain disorders, associated alterations and symptoms, and changes that might occur within your patients’ bodies.

To prepare:

• Review this week’s media presentation with Dr. Terry Buttaro. Reflect on the importance of developing an in-depth understanding of pathophysiology.
• Select a disorder from the following list:
  • Adrenal Insufficiency (Addison’s disease)
  • Atherosclerosis
  • Cholelithiasis (gallstones)
  • Colon cancer
  • Cystic Fibrosis
  • Hemophilia
  • Nephrolithiasis (kidney stones)
  • Osteoporosis
  • Parkinson’s disease
  • Tuberculosis
• Select one of the following patient factors: genetics, gender, ethnicity, age, or behavior. Reflect on how that factor might impact your selected disorder, as well as potential associated alterations and symptoms.
• Think about the pathophysiology of the associated alterations, including the normal and altered cellular function. Consider both intra- and extra-cellular changes that occur.