5 Deadly Diseases You Should Be Aware Of

The Five Deadly Diseases You Should Be Aware Of

As global citizens, it’s essential to educate ourselves about the potential health risks that we may encounter. Common infections are manageable, but deadly diseases require more attention, proactive prevention, and knowledge-based management. This article aims to inform readers of the top five life-threatening diseases: Ebola, Malaria, Cancer, Influenza, and HIV/AIDS.

The Ebola Virus

The Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) is caused by a type of virus known as Filovirus. The first EVD outbreak occurred in 1976 in Sudan and the Democratic Republic of Congo. The virus spreads by direct contact with patients’ blood, bodily fluids, and contaminated surfaces.

EVD symptoms include fever, headache, muscle pain, and sore throat. As the illness progresses, patients may experience vomiting, diarrhea, and internal bleeding, leading to death in about 50% of cases. With early diagnosis and proper treatment, which primarily involves managing symptoms, survival rates have improved to about 90%.

Malaria

Malaria is caused by mosquito-borne parasites, primarily Plasmodium falciparum and Plasmodium vivax. The disease is prevalent in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide but is most prevalent in sub-Saharan Africa. An estimated 229 million people were infected in 2019, with an estimated 409,000 deaths.

Malaria symptoms include fever, chills, and flu-like symptoms. In severe cases, the patient may suffer from seizures, organ failure, or coma, leading to death if left untreated. Early diagnosis and treatment with antimalarial medication can cure the infection.

Cancer

Cancer is the abnormal growth of cells in the human body, potentially resulting in life-threatening diseases. There are more than 100 types of cancer, with different causes and symptoms. Cancer is the second leading cause of death globally and accounted for approximately 9.6 million deaths in 2018.

Cancer symptoms depend on the type of cancer a person has; they may include lumps, bumps, and mass, fatigue, fever, chills, and pain. Treatment for cancer can involve surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, or immunotherapy.

Influenza

Influenza, commonly referred to as the flu, is a viral infection that targets the respiratory system. Flu viruses are airborne and can spread through coughing and sneezing. It is highly contagious, and a minor flu outbreak can become a major epidemic within a short time.

Flu symptoms include fever, cough, fatigue, body aches, and sore throat. These symptoms appear suddenly and can last for several days. Vaccination is the most effective method of preventing the flu and can significantly reduce the severity of infections.

HIV/AIDS

HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) attacks the human immune system. It reduces the body’s ability to fight off infections and illnesses, leading to AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome). HIV is primarily transmitted through contact with infected bodily fluids, such as blood, semen, vaginal fluids, and breast milk.

HIV symptoms are similar to flu, with fever, fatigue, and muscle aches, eventually leading to the development of AIDS. It is not yet curable, but antiretroviral therapy can lower viral loads and increase life expectancy. Education and prevention are the best ways to avoid contracting HIV.

Conclusion

Being informed is the first step in preventing and managing deadly diseases. It’s vital to stay up-to-date with the latest news about outbreaks and take any necessary precautions. Preventative measures such as proper sanitation, vaccination, and avoidance of risky behavior can make a difference in preventing and managing these deadly diseases.