What Are Communicable And Non- Communicable Diseases updated: May 14 , 2023 by Kamlesh kumar

What Are Communicable And Non- Communicable Diseases

updated: May 14 , 2023 by Kamlesh kumar

What Are Communicable Diseases?

Communicable diseases, which are also known as infectious diseases, are caused by microorganisms that can be transmitted from one individual to another through direct or indirect contact. 

These diseases can be transmitted through various means, such as respiratory droplets, contaminated food or water, insect bites, sexual contact, and blood transfusions. 

Top 10 Communicable Diseases

Some common examples of communicable diseases include 

1. Tuberculosis
2. Malaria
3. HIV/AIDS
4. Hepatitis
5. Measles
6. COVID-19
7. Common cold
8. Influenza (Flu)
9. Poliomyelitis (Polio)
10. Chickenpox

 

Prevention Of Communicable Diseases

The prevention and control of communicable diseases require various measures. They include vaccination, proper sanitation, hygiene practices and personal protection, such as using masks and gloves.

Additionally, early detection and treatment are crucial to prevent the spread of these diseases. For example, timely diagnosis and treatment of tuberculosis can help prevent its transmission to others.

What Are Non-Communicable Diseases?

Non-communicable diseases, also known as chronic diseases or non-infectious diseases, are not caused by infectious agents but are instead the result of various non-infectious factors such as lifestyle choices, heredity, and environmental factors. 

Top 10 Non-Communicable Diseases

Some common examples of non-infectious diseases include

1. Cancer
2. Diabetes
3. Heart disease
4. Chronic lung disease
5. Alzheimer’s disease
6. Hypertension
7. Asthma
8. Mental health ailments
9. Blindness
10. Obesity

 

Prevention Of Non-Communicable Diseases

The prevention and management of non-communicable diseases require a comprehensive approach involving lifestyle changes, public health interventions, and medical treatment. Risk factors for non-infectious diseases include unhealthy diets, physical inactivity, tobacco use, harmful alcohol consumption, and exposure to air pollution. 

A balanced diet, regular exercise, and giving up smoking can reduce the risk of developing non-infectious diseases such as diabetes and asthma.

Difference Between Communicable And Non-Communicable Diseases

Here are major differences between communication and non-communicative diseases

Communicable disease	Non-communicable diseases
Causes
Highly infectious pathogens and carriers spread these diseases	Causes include allergies, malnutrition, illness brought on by internal factors, changes in lifestyle and surroundings, abnormal cell growth, etc.
Transmitting  Agent
Viruses, bacteria etc.	Nil
Role of Inheritance
Cannot be passed down from one generation to another	Can be inherited through generations
Disease Type
Develop immediately and is acute	Develops over a period of time and lasts longer, it is fatal
Treatment
Traditional methods may work	Surgically or specialized treatments

This example will help you better understand the primary difference: Imagine queuing to board a flight at a gate in a busy airport. A flight lands at a nearby gate, and several passengers come out, putting on surgical masks. Your first instinct would be to stay well clear of them.

Your aircraft then begins to load. You start a discussion with someone talking about how difficult it is to get through security with syringes and insulin. They don’t have medical masks on and have diabetes. So why aren’t you worried about contracting diabetes? After all, diabetes is a condition that can be fatal.

It’s because you are aware that individuals who wear masks may have communicable diseases like the flu, COVID-19, or the common cold, whereas diabetes is not infectious and cannot be transmitted through contact or the air.

 

Global Impact Of Communicable And Non-communicable Diseases

Communicable and non-communicable diseases significantly impact global health and social and economic development. Communicable diseases are responsible for a significant proportion of deaths globally, particularly in low-income countries.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), communicable diseases account for about 29% of all deaths globally, most of which occur in low-income countries. On the other hand, non-communicable conditions are responsible for more than 70% of all deaths globally.

The burden of Non-communicable diseases is increasing globally. By 2030, NCDs will account for 80% of all deaths in low- and middle-income countries. Moreover, the burden of communicable and non-communicable diseases extends beyond their impact on health. 

These diseases have social and economic consequences that can affect individuals and communities. For example

• Communicable diseases can lead to social stigma, discrimination, and loss of income, particularly for those infected with diseases such as HIV/AIDS.

• Non-communicable diseases can lead to reduced productivity, increased healthcare costs, and loss of income, particularly for those who are incapable to work due to their illness.

 

The Way Forward

Preventing and controlling communicable and non-communicable diseases requires an inclusive approach that addresses the underlying risk factors and provides access to adequate and affordable healthcare services.

The WHO has developed a global action plan to address the burden of Non-communicable Diseases, focusing on preventing, detecting, and managing these diseases. Similarly, they will soon develop a global action plan on communicable diseases.

 

The Final Say

Communicable and non-communicable diseases are two distinct illnesses affecting individuals and populations worldwide. Communicable diseases are often transmitted from person to person. On the other hand, non-communicable diseases are not typically spread from one person to another.

Both types of diseases can significantly impact individual and public health. In addition, they can lead to high economic and social costs. Therefore, if you experience any symptoms of either of the diseases