Disease resistance is the ability of an organism to limit the damage caused by a pathogen or disease. There are several ways that plants, animals, and humans can have innate (natural) resistance or acquired resistance to diseases.
Some key points about disease resistance:
- How does innate resistance work? Many organisms have natural barriers or immune systems that help prevent infections. For example, plants have waxy cuticles and bark that protect against bacteria and fungi. Humans have skin that blocks pathogens and immune cells that attack foreign invaders.
- What about acquired resistance? Exposure to a disease can stimulate an immune response that gives lasting protection against that disease. For example, survivors of cholera have antibodies that provide immunity against future cholera infections. Vaccines work by exposing people to weakened pathogens to trigger acquired resistance.
- Are some individuals more resistant? Yes, genetic factors play a role. People with sickle cell anemia have higher resistance to malaria, for instance. Also, those with more robust immune systems tend to have greater disease resistance. Lifestyle factors like diet, exercise, and stress impact immunity as well.
- Can resistance wear off? Immunity to some diseases lasts a lifetime, while other immunities fade over months or years. People who recover from the flu, for example, may catch different strains in later seasons. Even within a population, immunity levels vary over time.
- How do diseases break resistance? Pathogens evolve to evade host defenses over time. Viruses or bacteria can mutate and take new forms that bypass existing immunities. Improper use of antibiotics has sped up this process for many dangerous bacteria.
- What helps boost disease resistance? Proper nutrition to maintain immune defenses is key. Getting adequate vitamin C, zinc, and protein helps the body resist infection. Certain herbs and supplements, like echinacea or probiotics, may offer immune support as well. Reducing stress through yoga, meditation, or other relaxing activities can also keep immunity strong.
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