What is the difference between communicable and non communciable diseases?

Communicable and non-communicable diseases are two broad categories of diseases that are distinguished based on their mode of transmission. Here's the difference between the two:

1. Communicable Diseases:

- Definition: Communicable diseases are illnesses caused by infectious agents, such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites, that can spread from one person or animal to another.

- Transmission: These diseases are transmitted through various means, including direct contact with an infected person, contact with contaminated surfaces or objects, exposure to respiratory droplets or aerosols, through blood or bodily fluids, and through vectors like insects or animals.

- Examples: Some common examples of communicable diseases include the common cold, influenza (flu), measles, mumps, chickenpox, tuberculosis (TB), sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and COVID-19.

2. Non-Communicable Diseases:

- Definition: Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are not caused by infectious agents. They are chronic health conditions that are often influenced by a combination of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors.

- Transmission: These diseases are not spread from person to person through infectious agents. Instead, they are typically caused by risk factors such as poor diet, lack of physical activity, smoking, excessive alcohol intake, and certain genetic predispositions.

- Examples: Examples of non-communicable diseases include cardiovascular diseases (such as heart attacks and strokes), diabetes, chronic respiratory diseases (such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), certain types of cancer, mental disorders, and some musculoskeletal disorders.

It's important to note that some communicable diseases can be prevented through immunization and vaccination, while non-communicable diseases often require long-term management and intervention to control and prevent complications.