Chapter 2 - Risk Factors: Behavior, Genes, Environment (Vocabulary)

Vocabulary flashcards covering key terms from Chapter 2 on risk factors, genes, environment, and related concepts.

life expectancy

An estimate of how long a person is likely to live.

life span

The actual number of years a person lives; may be greater or less than life expectancy.

morbidity

The prevalence of a disease, disorder, condition, or injury in a population.

mortality

The number of deaths caused by a disease, disorder, condition, or injury in a population.

quality of life

A person's level of satisfaction with various aspects of life, not just absence of disease.

risk factors

Aspects of a person's life that increase the chances they will develop a disease, disorder, or injury.

behavioral risk factors

Choices and behaviors that increase a person’s chance of disease or injury.

environmental risk factors

Characteristics of surroundings that may expose a person to injury or disease.

genetic risk factors

Genetic factors that increase a person’s risk for certain diseases.

modifiable risk factors

Risk factors that can be controlled, reduced, or eliminated.

non-modifiable risk factors

Risk factors that cannot be changed, such as age, gender, and some genetic risks.

gene

A unit of heredity; a segment of DNA that helps determine a trait.

chromosome

Bundles of genes located in the cell nucleus.

DNA

Deoxyribonucleic acid; the long molecule that carries genetic information.

nucleus

The cellular compartment that houses chromosomes.

inherited disease

A disease caused by defective genes passed down from an ancestral line.

pathogens

Microscopic living things such as bacteria and viruses that may cause infections.

immune system

The body’s system of cells and chemicals that fight infections.

blood cholesterol

A fatty substance in the blood; high levels can block arteries and raise disease risk.

family history

The record of a disease’s presence and impact within a family.

environment

The circumstances, objects, and conditions surrounding you in daily life.

climate

The overall environmental weather pattern of a region.

geography

The features of the land and nearby bodies of water in a region.

hazard

An aspect of your environment that puts you at risk for disease or injury.

socioeconomic risk factors

Characteristics of your social and economic status that may expose you to injury or disease.

education

Level of schooling; higher education is linked to better health outcomes.

income

Economic resources; higher income is generally linked to better health.