# 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

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

## 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

- [communicable disease](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/communicable-disease)
- [non-communicable disease](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/non-communicable-disease)

## Related

- [Revision notes for Edexcel GCSE Biology (1BI0)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Explain" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
- [Practice this with AI marking (free)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/start)

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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/explain-why-a-student-who-develops-7090f327) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.