B6.3.14 Flashcards
What causes an increase in the chance of developing non-communicable diseases
Some lifestyle choices such as smoking or drinking alcohol
What is tar in cigarettes and what does it do
Tar - collects in the lungs when the smoke cools. It causes cancer. Which is causes as a result of cell changes causing uncontrolled growth and division.
What is nicotine in cigarettes and what does it do
The addictive drug affects the nervous system. Making the heart beat faster, and narrows blood vessels.
What is carbon monoxide in cigarettes and what does it do
Poisonous gas attaches to haemoglobin in the red blood cells, in place of oxygen. The blood carries less oxygen, so the heart has to work harder, which can lead to heart disease.
What is particulates in cigarettes and what does it do
Small pieces of solid are engulfed by white blood cells. An enzyme is released which weakens the walls of the alveoli. The alveoli don’t inflate properly when the person inhales, so less oxygen passes into the blood, leaving them breathless.
What are other substances in cigarettes and what does it do
They paralyse the ciliated cells lining the airways, allowing mucus to flow into the lungs. Causing infection, such as bronchitis.
What does alcohol contain
Contains the drug ethanol, which affects the nervous system. It is a depressant which means that it slows down the body’s behaviour.
Symptom of alcohol
People feel relaxed and happy for a short time, but some may feel aggressive or sad. Short-term effects include blurred vision, loss of balance.
Symptoms of ethanol
Ethanol is toxic to humans. The liver breaks ethanol down into waste products which are excreted from your body. Livers of heavy drinkers can become scared.
