Life factors
What are life factors?
Life factors are elements that can affect the way we live; there are many things that affect our lifestyle. There are genetic factors, biological factors, environmental factors, socio economic factors, and lifestyle factors itself.
Genetic Factors- Every human has 46 chromosomes, 23 from the mother and 23 from the father. These chromosomes carry genes (instructions to make a new person) made from deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA). DNA contains instructions to create specific proteins which regulate the development of a human being. If any of these instructions are faulty, it could have a huge impact on the development of the individual. Some genetic conditions are:
1. Cystic Fibrosis is a condition caused by a defective gene. This recessive gene is only effective if both parents of an individual carry it. When both parents DO carry this gene, there will be a one in four chance that the child born will have cystic fibrosis. This condition causes the lungs to be clogged with thick, sticky mucus. This means that the individual will have problems absorbing correct nutrients from food they consume, and suffer from a lot of chest infections. Cystic fibrosis has no cure, however physiotherapy and a range of drugs help clear the mucus and control the infections in the throat and lungs.
2. Coeliac disease is a common digestive condition where an individual has an unpleasant reaction to gluten. People suffering from coeliac disease find it difficult to absorb important vitamins and minerals, which can lead to further diseases including osteoporosis, diarrhoea and anaemia. Coeliac disease cannot be treated, however doctors advise patients suffering from coeliac disease to switch to a gluten-free diet.
3. Asthma is a long term condition that can cause chesty coughs, wheezing, chest tightness and breathlessness. It can be caused by genetic inheritance, diet as well as pollution. It’s not a curable condition however, it could be...