Explain why a student who develops influenza (flu), a communicable disease, may also be at greater risk of developing a non-communicable disease over time.

Edexcel GCSE Biology (1BI0) — 5.1 Health and disease · Explain · 4 marks · View as Markdown

Written & reviewed by James Millett — Biology (Imperial College London), PGCE Science (University of Cambridge).

A student has been told by their doctor that repeated serious infections during childhood can have long-term consequences for their overall health.

Model answer (4 marks)

1. Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well‑being (WHO). 2. Influenza is a communicable disease caused by a virus that can be spread between people. 3. Infection can weaken the immune system, damage tissues and leave the body more vulnerable. 4. This weakened state increases the risk of non‑communicable diseases such as cardiovascular disease.

Examiner tips

  • Use the WHO definition of health to show understanding of the concept.
  • Explain the nature of influenza as a communicable disease.
  • Show how infection weakens immunity or damages tissues.
  • Link this to an increased risk of a non‑communicable disease, e.g. cardiovascular disease.

Common mistakes

  • Confusing communicable with non‑communicable diseases; not defining influenza.
  • Failing to explain how infection weakens the immune system or damages tissues.
  • Using vague terms like ‘bad health’ without linking to specific non‑communicable diseases.

Mark scheme (4 marks)

  1. Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being (WHO definition)
  2. A communicable disease (influenza) is caused by a pathogen that can be spread between individuals
  3. Having a communicable disease can weaken the immune system / damage body tissues / leave the body more vulnerable
  4. This can increase the risk of a non-communicable disease developing, as the two types of disease can interact / poor physical health increases risk of conditions such as cardiovascular disease

Key terms in this question

communicable disease · non-communicable disease

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