Diseases can be spread across a wide spectrum, with predominantly genetic diseases at one extreme of the
spectrum and diseases of largely environmental origin at the other.
Between these two extremes lie
most human diseases--those with both genetic and environmental causative influences that are significant. Indeed, even at the very extreme ends of the spectrum both factors play
'some' role. The genetic constitution dictates in part the host's response to
environmental challenges. Similarly, environmental factors play significant roles in the
manifestation of genetically induced disease.
Furthermore, there are many disorders in which there is a familial tendency to develop the disease
'but no formal pattern of inheritance has been delineated'. Many forms of cancer, high blood pressure, arthritis, and obesity, for example,
'seem' to have a familial tendency. Although the exact roles of environmental and genetic factors are
'unknown' in all these diseases, it is strongly
felt that both factors contribute to the disease process.
Medical and
Alternative Medical Terminology, Explanations - by Courtesy of Encyclopedia Britannica®
2001 |