Eating Disorders, Cardiovascular Disease, and Cancer

These flashcards cover key terms and concepts from the lecture notes on eating disorders, cardiovascular disease, and cancer, aiding in exam preparation.

Anorexia Nervosa

A syndrome in which the individual maintains a low weight, characterized by restricting types or binge eating/purging type.

Bulimia Nervosa

Characterized by recurrent episodes of binge eating and compensatory behaviors such as purging.

Binge Eating Disorder

Involves recurrent episodes of binge eating without using compensatory purging behaviors, occurring at least once a week for three months.

Compensatory Behaviors

Actions taken to counteract perceived deficiencies or negative outcomes, such as purging or excessive exercise.

Medical Complications of Eating Disorders

Include endocrine system effects like amenorrhea, delayed puberty, loss of muscle strength, and electrolyte imbalances.

Genetic Risk Factors for Eating Disorders

Female relatives of those with Anorexia Nervosa are 11 times more likely to develop an eating disorder.

Atherosclerosis

The formation of plaques in the arteries, leading to narrowed vessels and reduced blood flow.

Myocardial Infarction

Also known as a heart attack; the death of myocardial tissue due to lack of oxygen.

Hypertension

Abnormally high blood pressure, a predictor of heart attack and stroke.

Plaque

A deposit composed of cholesterol and other lipids that can block blood flow in arteries.

Carcinoma

Cancers of the epithelial tissue, often seen in organs like the breast, prostate, and colon.

Malignant Cancer

Cancerous growths that spread and invade surrounding tissues, unlike benign tumors which remain localized.

Environmental Risk Factors for Cancer

Include exposure to asbestos, pollutants, and ultraviolet radiation, which can increase cancer risk.

Nicotine

A stimulant found in cigarettes that affects both the Central Nervous System (CNS) and Peripheral Nervous System (PNS).

Optimistic Bias in Smokers

The belief among smokers that they have a lower risk of disease and death compared to others.

Health Consequences of Smoking

Include increased risks for various cancers, cardiovascular disease, and chronic respiratory diseases.