Predisposition
Predisposition
Predisposition (pronounced: pre-dis-po-si-tion) is a term used in medicine to describe the susceptibility or tendency to develop a particular disease or disorder due to genetic or environmental factors.
Etymology
The term "predisposition" is derived from the Latin "prae" meaning "before" and "dispositio" meaning "arrangement" or "condition". It essentially refers to a condition that is arranged or set up beforehand.
Definition
In the context of medicine, a predisposition refers to an increased likelihood of developing a particular disease based on a person's genetic makeup or other factors. This does not guarantee that the person will get the disease, but it means they are more susceptible than others without the predisposition.
Related Terms
- Genetic Predisposition: This refers to the increased likelihood of developing a disease due to the presence of one or more gene mutations, and/or a particular combination of genes inherited from parents.
- Environmental Predisposition: This refers to the increased likelihood of developing a disease due to exposure to certain environmental factors such as diet, lifestyle, and toxins.
- Risk Factor: This is any attribute, characteristic or exposure of an individual that increases the likelihood of developing a disease or injury.
- Susceptibility: This is the state or fact of being likely or liable to be influenced or harmed by a particular thing.
- Genetic Testing: This is a type of medical test that identifies changes in chromosomes, genes, or proteins to predict a person's risk of developing or passing on a genetic disorder.
- Prevention: This refers to measures taken to prevent diseases, rather than treating them or handling their symptoms.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Predisposition
- Wikipedia's article - Predisposition
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