Ask a New Question
Menu

1. Define with the refferrence source (eg a book) the climate change and explain its negative impact on distribution and transmission vector- borne parasitic diseases. Explain with practical examples the mesures on how to handle it

2.Define with the refferrence (eg a book source) the multifactorial inheritance and clearly highlight the four common general features of the multifactorial disorders. Explain with practical examples

1 answer

1. Climate Change and Vector-Borne Parasitic Diseases

Definition of Climate Change: Climate change refers to long-term shifts in temperatures and weather patterns, predominantly driven by human activities such as fossil fuel combustion, deforestation, and industrial processes. A prominent reference source is the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) reports, which provide comprehensive assessments of climate change science, impacts, and potential adaptation and mitigation strategies.

Negative Impact on Distribution and Transmission of Vector-Borne Parasitic Diseases: Climate change affects the geographical distribution, transmission dynamics, and seasonality of vector-borne parasitic diseases by altering the habitats and population dynamics of vectors such as mosquitoes (e.g., Anopheles for malaria and Aedes for dengue and Zika).

Examples of Impacts:

  1. Warming Temperatures: Higher temperatures can expand the range of vectors into previously unsuitable regions, increasing the risk of diseases like malaria in higher altitudes and latitudes. For instance, the resurgence of malaria in Bhutan has been linked to rising temperatures allowing the Anopheles mosquito to survive in higher elevations.

  2. Altered Rainfall Patterns: Increased rainfall and flooding can create more breeding sites for mosquitoes, enhancing transmission potential. For example, heavy rainfall and stagnant water can lead to increased cases of Dengue Fever in tropical regions.

  3. Longer Transmission Seasons: With milder winters, vectors can survive longer and reproduce more frequently, leading to heightened disease transmission. In regions like Southern Europe, the increased survival of Aedes albopictus has been correlated with a rise in local dengue cases.

Measures to Handle the Impact:

  1. Vector Control: Implementing integrated pest management strategies that include habitat modification, biological control, and targeted insecticide use can help manage vector populations.

  2. Surveillance Systems: Developing real-time disease surveillance systems can help track and predict outbreaks, allowing for timely interventions.

  3. Public Health Education: Raising awareness about prevention methods among communities, such as using mosquito nets, repellents, or installing screens, can reduce transmission.

  4. Climate Adaptation Strategies: Enhancing health infrastructure to cope with climate change impacts, such as improving water management during floods, can mitigate the risks of vector-borne diseases.

2. Multifactorial Inheritance

Definition of Multifactorial Inheritance: Multifactorial inheritance refers to the genetic and environmental contributions to complex traits or disorders that cannot be attributed to a single gene. This concept is extensively discussed in "Genetics in Medicine" by Jameson J.L., et al., which describes the interaction between multiple genes and environmental factors in the expression of traits.

Four Common General Features of Multifactorial Disorders:

  1. Polygenic Inheritance: Multifactorial disorders are influenced by multiple genes, each contributing a small effect to the overall phenotype. For example, congenital heart disease often involves variations in several genes that predispose individuals to develop the condition.

  2. Environmental Influence: Beyond genetic factors, environmental influences—such as diet, climate, exposure to toxins, and lifestyle—play significant roles in the expression of these disorders. For example, Type 2 diabetes has a genetic predisposition but is heavily influenced by lifestyle factors such as obesity and physical activity.

  3. Continuum of Expression: Traits influenced by multifactorial inheritance often show a range of manifestations rather than distinct categories. For instance, hypertension can range from mildly elevated to severely high, depending on genetic susceptibility and environmental factors.

  4. Recurrence Risk: The likelihood of recurrence varies among family members depending on the number and severity of affected individuals in the family. For example, the probability of having a child with spina bifida increases if there is a family history of the condition.

Practical Examples:

  • Heart Disease: Involves multiple genes (such as LDLR and APOE) and lifestyle factors (such as diet and exercise).
  • Asthma: A complex interplay of genetic predisposition and environmental factors (such as allergen exposure and air pollution) contributes to the severity of the disorder.

References

  • Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC). Various reports as referenced.
  • Jameson, J.L., et al. (2020). Genetics in Medicine. Elsevier.