Environmental Hazards & Human Health

Flashcards covering key vocabulary and concepts related to environmental hazards and their impact on human health.

Biological hazards

Infectious diseases such as COVID-19, flu, AIDS, tuberculosis, and malaria.

Germ theory

The theory that microorganisms can invade living hosts and cause disease.

Transmissible disease

A disease that can be passed from one person to another.

Epidemic

An outbreak of infectious disease in a specific area.

Pandemic

A global outbreak of infectious disease.

Carcinogen

A substance capable of causing cancer.

Mutagen

A chemical that causes or increases genetic mutations.

Teratogen

A substance causing harm to a developing fetus.

Neurotoxic

A substance that impairs the nervous system.

Endocrine disruptor

A chemical that can interfere with the endocrine (hormonal) system.

Atrazine

An herbicide linked to cancer and reproductive harm often found in drinking water.

E. coli

A type of bacteria that can cause foodborne illness.

HIV

Human immunodeficiency virus, a virus that targets the immune system.

Malaria

A disease caused by parasites transmitted through mosquito bites.

Immunization

The process of becoming immune to a disease, often through vaccination.

Antiretrovirals

Medications used to treat HIV/AIDS that reduce the viral load.