Deficiency, Non-Contagious and Other Diseases is part of Biology. Below are notes on 12 sub-topics, followed by practice MCQs from State PSC and UPSC papers.

Allergies and Hypersensitivity Reactions

  • Allergy/Hypersensitivity: An exaggerated or inappropriate immune response to certain antigens (allergens) that are otherwise harmless.
  • Celiac Disease: An autoimmune disorder characterized by a severe reaction to gluten.
  • Gluten: A protein found in wheat, barley, rye, and related grains.
  • In Celiac disease, gluten ingestion leads to an immune response that damages the lining of the small intestine.

Autoimmune Diseases

  • Autoimmune Diseases: Conditions where the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's own healthy cells, tissues, or organs.
  • Mechanism: Occurs due to a breakdown in immunological self-tolerance.
  • Examples:
    • Rheumatoid Arthritis: A chronic inflammatory disorder primarily affecting the joints. (Mentioned in MCQ)
    • Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE)
    • Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
    • Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus (destroys insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas).
    • Hashimoto's Thyroiditis (attacks the thyroid gland).
    • Myasthenia Gravis (attacks neuromuscular junctions).
    • Psoriasis.
  • Management: Often involves immunosuppressants, anti-inflammatory drugs, and symptom-specific treatments.
  • Gouty Arthritis (Note: Not an Autoimmune Disease):
    • Classification: A metabolic disorder, characterized by elevated serum uric acid levels.
    • Cause: Accumulation of uric acid crystals in joints, causing inflammation.
    • Uric Acid Source: Uric acid is the end product of purine metabolism.
    • Dietary Minimization: Patients should minimize the intake of food components rich in purines, such as nucleic acids, to reduce uric acid production. (Mentioned in MCQ)

Cancers (Oncology basics)

  • Leukaemia: A type of cancer characterized by an abnormal increase in the number of white blood cells.
  • Carcinogens: Physical, chemical, or biological agents that induce the transformation of normal cells into cancerous (neoplastic) cells.
  • Cancer: A non-infectious and non-contagious disease.
  • Metastasis: The process by which cancerous cells spread from the primary site to other parts of the body.

Cardiovascular

Diseases

(Hypertension,

Atherosclerosis)

  • Cardiovascular Diseases (CVDs) are noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) affecting the heart and blood vessels.
  • Hypertension (High Blood Pressure):
    • Is a non-infectious disease.
    • Defined as persistently high arterial blood pressure (e.g., typically ≥ 140/90 mmHg).
    • Risk factors include high dietary salt intake, obesity, lack of physical activity, stress, excessive alcohol, and genetic predisposition.
    • High salt intake contributes to increased blood volume and elevated blood pressure.
    • Chronic hypertension damages blood vessels throughout the body, including those in the kidneys, increasing the risk of kidney damage and eventual kidney failure.
  • Atherosclerosis:
    • Is a specific type of cardiovascular disease.
    • Characterized by the hardening and narrowing of arteries due to the buildup of plaque on the inner walls.
    • Plaque consists of fatty deposits, cholesterol, calcium, and other cellular waste products.
    • Risk factors include a diet high in saturated fats and trans fats, high cholesterol levels, high blood pressure, diabetes, smoking, obesity, and physical inactivity.
    • Plaque buildup restricts blood flow, leading to conditions like heart attack, stroke, and peripheral artery disease.

Degenerative Neurological Disorders (e.g., Alzheimer's, Parkinson's)

  • Degenerative Neurological Disorders are non-contagious, progressive conditions affecting the nervous system.
  • Parkinson's Disease: A neurodegenerative disorder.
  • Parkinson's Disease: Caused by a deficiency of dopamine in brain neurons.
  • Alzheimer's Disease: A neurodegenerative disorder.
  • Alzheimer's Disease: Primarily affects human memory and other cognitive functions, leading to their decline.

Diabetes Mellitus

  • Diabetes Mellitus (DM) is a metabolic disorder characterized by chronic hyperglycemia (high blood sugar level in blood).
  • DM is primarily associated with the Pancreas, the organ responsible for producing the hormone insulin.
  • Insulin regulates blood glucose levels by facilitating glucose uptake into cells.
  • Type 1 Diabetes: Results from the body's failure to produce sufficient insulin (autoimmune destruction of pancreatic beta cells), leading to lower insulin levels in the blood.
  • Type 2 Diabetes: Characterized by insulin resistance (cells fail to respond to insulin effectively) or insufficient insulin production.
  • Key symptoms include polyuria (frequent urination), polydipsia (increased thirst), and polyphagia (increased hunger).

Environmental and Occupational Non-Communicable Diseases

  • Asbestosis: Lung fibrosis and Mesothelioma are characteristically linked to asbestos exposure.
  • Silicosis: Affects workers in industries dealing with silica dust, such as cement, mining, quarrying, and sandblasting.
  • Emetophobia: Fear of vomiting.
  • Epidemic Dropsy: Caused by adulteration of mustard oil with Argemone oil.
  • Alcohol-induced liver damage: Occurs as the liver detoxifies alcohol, leading to fat accumulation and eventually liver cirrhosis.
  • Oral Submucous Fibrosis: Caused by consuming gutka or other chewing tobacco products.
  • Ochlophobia: Fear of crowds.
  • Byssinosis: Affects textile workers due to inhalation of cotton dust.
  • Minamata disease: Caused by mercury compounds (e.g., from industrial waste contaminating fish).
  • Lathyrism: Caused by consuming large quantities of Lathyrus sativus (Khesari Dal), due to the neurotoxin Beta-N-Oxalylamino-Lalanine (BOAA).
  • Itai-Itai disease: Caused by Cadmium poisoning.
  • Bhopal Gas Tragedy (1984): Caused by the leakage of Methyl Isocyanate (MIC) gas.

Genetic and Chromosomal Disorders

  • Sensory Hearing Impairment: Hearing loss originating from issues in the inner ear (cochlea) or auditory nerve.
  • Potential causes include:
  • Maternal Rubella infection during pregnancy.
  • Maternal alcohol intake during pregnancy.
  • Excessive medicine intake by the mother during pregnancy.
  • Severe Jaundice in newborns.
  • Premature birth.
  • Head injury to the child at birth.
  • Lack of oxygen (anoxia/hypoxia) at birth.

Mineral Deficiency Diseases

  • Fluoride:
    • Deficiency (low or < 0.5 ppm): Causes tooth caries/decay/cavities.
    • Excess: Causes Fluorosis (primarily affects teeth).
    • Tooth decay starts when mouth pH is less than 5.5.
    • Fluoride pollution mainly affects teeth.
  • Iodine:
    • Deficiency: Causes Goitre.
    • Administered to patients suffering from Goitre.
  • Nitrate:
    • Contamination in water causes Blue Baby Syndrome (Methemoglobinemia).
  • Mercury:
    • Contamination causes Minamata disease.
  • Cadmium:
    • Chronic poisoning causes Itai-Itai disease.
  • Lead:
    • Toxicity inhibits heme synthesis enzymes, leading to severe anemia.
  • Zinc:
    • Deficiency in children: Causes growth retardation, impaired immune function, decreased appetite, and cognitive dysfunction.
    • Supplement used for treating acute diarrhea in children.
  • Uric Acid:
    • High levels in blood / deposition in joints causes Gout (a form of arthritis).
  • Khesari Dal (Lathyrus sativus):
    • Excessive consumption causes Lathyrism.
  • Pica:
    • In animals, Pica (craving non-food items) is a vice due to mineral deficiency.

Obesity and Metabolic Syndrome

  • Obesity: Condition of excessive body fat accumulation that may impair health. Measured by Body Mass Index (BMI).
  • Health Consequences of Obesity: Increased risk of Cardiovascular Disease (CVD), Type 2 Diabetes, Hypertension, Musculoskeletal disorders (e.g., Osteoarthritis), Sleep Apnea, and certain Cancers.
  • Prevention of Obesity: Largely preventable through lifestyle modifications, including a balanced diet (reducing saturated fats and refined sugars; increasing unsaturated fats, fruits, and vegetables) and regular physical activity.
  • Eating Disorders:
    • Bulimia Nervosa: Characterized by recurrent episodes of binge eating (consuming excessively large amounts of food with a feeling of lack of control) followed by compensatory behaviors (e.g., self-induced vomiting, excessive exercise, fasting, laxative misuse).
    • Anorexia Nervosa: Characterized by an intense fear of gaining weight, a distorted body image, and a refusal to maintain a healthy body weight.
    • Binge Eating Disorder: Involves recurrent episodes of eating large amounts of food, often rapidly and to the point of discomfort, accompanied by feelings of distress, but without compensatory behaviors.
  • Metabolic Syndrome (Syndrome X): A cluster of conditions that occur together, significantly increasing the risk of heart disease, stroke, and Type 2 Diabetes.
  • Components of Metabolic Syndrome: Includes abdominal obesity (excess waist fat), high blood pressure, high blood sugar, high triglyceride levels, and low HDL (good) cholesterol levels.
  • Underlying Factors of Metabolic Syndrome: Often linked to insulin resistance, genetics, and an inactive lifestyle.

Protein-Energy Malnutrition (PEM)

  • Protein-Energy Malnutrition (PEM): Broad term for conditions caused by insufficient intake of protein and/or energy.
  • Kwashiorkor:
    • Caused by severe protein deficiency in the diet.
    • Often characterized by sufficient carbohydrates and fats, but deficient proteins.
    • Key symptoms include edema (swelling, especially in legs and face) and a distended belly.
  • Marasmus:
    • Caused by severe deficiency of all macronutrients (proteins, carbohydrates, fats) and overall energy.
    • Key symptom is extreme wasting of muscle and fat, leading to a "skin and bones" appearance without edema.
  • Protein:
    • Essential for numerous bodily functions, including structural components.
    • Cataract: Clouding of the natural lens of the eye, caused by changes in the protein structure within the lens.

Vitamin Deficiency Diseases

  • Vitamin A (Retinol) deficiency causes: Night blindness (Nyctalopia) and Xerophthalmia.
  • Vitamin B1 (Thiamine) deficiency causes: Beriberi, affecting the nervous system and cardiovascular system.
  • Consumption of polished rice is a common cause of Beriberi due to the removal of Vitamin B1.
  • Vitamin B12 (Cobalamin) deficiency causes: Pernicious anemia.
  • Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid) deficiency causes: Scurvy, characterized by bleeding gums, weakness, and poor wound healing.
  • Vitamin D (Calciferol) deficiency causes: Rickets in children (softening and weakening of bones) and Osteomalacia in adults.
  • Vitamin K deficiency causes: Impaired blood clotting, leading to bleeding disorders.

30. Main Plant Diseases

Practice MCQs: Deficiency, Non-Contagious and Other Diseases

Allergies and Hypersensitivity Reactions

  1. Celiac disease is triggered by a sensitivity to which of the following proteins? - Question not attempted

    Asked in: Protection Officer 2024

    1. Casein
    2. Clathrin
    3. Albumin
    4. Gluten
    Show answer

    Answer: D. Gluten

    Celiac disease highlights the impact of dietary components on human health and the specificity of immune responses.

Autoimmune Diseases

  1. Intake of which one of the following food components should be minimized by patients having Gouty Arthritis due to elevated serum uric acid level ?

    Asked in: UPSC NDA 2 2017

    1. Food fibres
    2. Nucleic acids
    3. Lipids
    4. Carbohydrates
    Show answer

    Answer: B. Nucleic acids

    Gouty arthritis is caused by elevated levels of uric acid in the blood, which leads to the formation of uric acid crystals in the joints. Uric acid is a metabolic breakdown product of purines. Purines are building blocks of nucleic acids (DNA and RNA).

  2. Which of the following is an autoimmune disease ?

    Asked in: Protection Officer 2022

    1. Rheumatoid arthritis
    2. Hepatitis-B
    3. Type 2 diabetes
    4. Filiariasis
    Show answer

    Answer: A. Rheumatoid arthritis

    An autoimmune disease is a condition where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks its own healthy tissues. - Rheumatoid arthritis The immune system attacks the lining of the joints, causing inflammation and pain. - Hepatitis-B Primarily a viral infection that affects the liver. While the immune response plays a role in clearing the virus, it's not considered primarily an autoimmune disease. - Type 2 diabetes A metabolic disorder characterized by insulin resistance and high blood sugar. While there can be an autoimmune component in some forms of diabetes (like Type 1), Type 2 is largely due to lifestyle and genetic factors. - Filiariasis A parasitic disease transmitted by mosquitoes.

Cancers (Oncology basics)

  1. Leukaemia is a type of cancer in which there is abnormal increase in the number of

    Asked in: UPPCS Prelims 2016

    1. bone cells
    2. platelets
    3. red blood cells
    4. white blood cells
    Show answer

    Answer: D. white blood cells

    White blood cells are part of the body's immune system, fighting infection. In leukaemia, the abnormal white blood cells do not function correctly and can crowd out healthy red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets in the bone marrow.

  2. Transformation of normal cells into cancerous neoplastic cells may be induced by physical, chemical or biological agents are called : (b) Metastasis (c) Allergy (d) AIDS

    Asked in: ukpsc 2025 2025

    1. Carcinogens
    2. Metastasis
    3. Allergy
    4. AIDS
    Show answer

    Answer: A. Carcinogens

    Carcinogens are agents that cause cancer.

  3. Which of the following is not an infectious disease?

    Asked in: Assistant Programmer 2021

    1. Cancer
    2. Diphtheria
    3. Influenza
    4. Giardiasis
    Show answer

    Answer: A. Cancer

    Infectious diseases are caused by pathogenic microorganisms and can be spread, directly or indirectly, from one person to another. Non-infectious diseases are not caused by pathogens and are generally not transmissible.

Cardiovascular Diseases (Hypertension, Atherosclerosis)

  1. Statement I : Too much salt content in diet could be one of the reasons for kidney failure. Statement II : High salt may cause high blood pressure.

    Asked in: UPSC NDA 2 2016

    1. Both the statements are individually true and Statement II is the correct explanation of Statement I
    2. Both the statements are individually true but Statement II is not the correct explanation of Statement I
    3. Statement I is true but Statement II is false
    4. Statement I is false but Statement II is true
    Show answer

    Answer: A. Both the statements are individually true and Statement II is the correct explanation of Statement I

    - High dietary salt intake is a major risk factor for hypertension (high blood pressure). - High blood pressure is a leading cause of chronic kidney disease and, eventually, kidney failure.

  2. A diet high in saturated fats can be linked to which of the following disorder?

    Asked in: WBCS Main Paper 4 2022

    1. Kidney Failure
    2. Bulimia
    3. Anorexia
    4. Cardiovascular diseases
    Show answer

    Answer: D. Cardiovascular diseases

    High saturated fat intake is strongly linked to elevated cholesterol and cardiovascular diseases.

  3. Which among the following is a non-infectious disease ? Common cold Pneumonia High blood pressure AIDS

    Asked in: Clerk GR II Comb. Comp. Exam 2013

    1. (1)
    2. (2)
    3. (3)
    4. (4)
    Show answer

    Answer: C. (3)

    Infectious diseases are caused by pathogenic microorganisms like bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites, and can be transmitted from one person to another or from animals to humans. Non-infectious diseases are not caused by pathogens and are generally not transmissible.

Degenerative Neurological Disorders (e.g., Alzheimer's, Parkinson's)

  1. An elderly person while trying to read a book at about 25 cm from the eyes finds the image appears blurred because of the decreasing effectiveness of the ciliary muscles and the loss of flexibility of the lens. This defect of the eyes is called

    Asked in: UPSC CAPF 2011

    1. myopia
    2. astigmatism
    3. hypermetropia
    4. presbyopia
    Show answer

    Answer: D. presbyopia

    Presbyopia is a common age-related condition that reduces the eye's ability to focus on close objects. It occurs because the lens of the eye hardens and loses flexibility, and the muscles surrounding the lens become less effective at changing the lens's shape for focusing on near vision (a process called accommodation). This results in blurred vision when reading or doing other close-up tasks.

  2. Parkinson's Disease is caused by a deficiency of Dopamine within :

    Asked in: Asst. Engineer Comb. Comp. Exam (Pre) 2024

    1. Brain neurons
    2. Spinal cord neurons
    3. Muscular filaments of the arms
    4. Muscular filaments of limbs
    Show answer

    Answer: A. Brain neurons

    Parkinson's Disease is characterized by the loss of dopamine-producing neurons in the substantia nigra, a region of the brain. This dopamine deficiency is the primary cause of the motor symptoms associated with the disease.

  3. Which disease affects human memory?

    Asked in: J.E (Electrical 2020) 2020

    1. Alzheimer's
    2. Arthritis
    3. Rheumatism
    4. Osteoporosis
    Show answer

    Answer: A. Alzheimer's

    Alzheimer's disease is a neurodegenerative disease that leads to the gradual destruction of brain cells, significantly impacting cognitive functions, especially memory.

Diabetes Mellitus

  1. Type II diabetes is characterized by :

    Asked in: OPSC CS Prelims 2015

    1. Hyperglycemia
    2. Polyuria
    3. Both of the above
    4. None of the above
    Show answer

    Answer: C. Both of the above

    Hyperglycemia is the defining metabolic feature of diabetes mellitus, regardless of type. Polyuria, polydipsia (excessive thirst), and polyphagia (excessive hunger) are common symptoms of uncontrolled hyperglycemia in both Type I and Type II diabetes.

  2. Diabetes is the most common disorder associated with:

    Asked in: UPPCS Prelims 2024

    1. Kidney
    2. Gall bladder
    3. Liver
    4. Pancreas
    Show answer

    Answer: D. Pancreas

    The pancreas contains specialized cells called islets of Langerhans, which produce insulin and glucagon. Insulin lowers blood glucose levels, while glucagon raises them. Diabetes occurs when there is a problem with insulin production (Type 1) or action (Type 2), leading to hyperglycemia (high blood sugar).

  3. Which of the following are associated with diabetes mellitus, a common disease in adults? I. Higher sugar level in blood II. Lower sugar level in blood III. Lower insulin level in blood IV. Higher insulin level in blood Select the correct answer by using the codes given below:

    Asked in: UPPCS Prelims 1996

    1. II and IV
    2. I and II
    3. II and III
    4. I and III
    Show answer

    Answer: D. I and III

    - Diabetes mellitus is characterized by hyperglycemia, meaning abnormally high levels of glucose (sugar) in the blood (Statement I is correct). - This high blood sugar is primarily due to problems with insulin, a hormone produced by the pancreas that helps glucose enter cells for energy. - In Type 1 diabetes, the pancreas produces little or no insulin (Statement III is correct). - In Type 2 diabetes, the body doesn't use insulin properly (insulin resistance), and eventually, the pancreas may not produce enough insulin to compensate. While insulin levels can be high initially in Type 2 as the body tries to overcome resistance, the underlying issue leading to hyperglycemia is insufficient effective insulin action. Thus, lower effective insulin activity is a key feature. - Lower sugar level in blood (hypoglycemia) is the opposite of hyperglycemia and is a complication of diabetes treatment, not a characteristic of the disease itself (Statement II is incorrect). - Higher insulin level in blood can be seen in some stages of Type 2 diabetes due to resistance, but lower effective insulin action is the problem, leading to high blood sugar. Statement IV can be true in some cases, but Statement III (lower insulin or lower effective insulin action) is more universally applicable as the cause of the hyperglycemia. Given the options, I and III together best describe the core issues in diabetes.

Environmental and Occupational Non-Communicable Diseases

  1. Which one among the following diseases is characteristically and specifically linked to asbestosis ?

    Asked in: UPSC Geoscientist 2024

    1. Liver fibrosis
    2. Lung fibrosis
    3. Mesothelioma
    4. Pleural effusion
    Show answer

    Answer: C. Mesothelioma

    Asbestos exposure is a well-established cause of several respiratory and pleural diseases, including asbestosis (a type of lung fibrosis), lung cancer, pleural plaques, pleural thickening, and mesothelioma. While asbestosis is the fibrotic disease caused by asbestos, mesothelioma is a distinct malignancy that is particularly strongly and specifically associated with asbestos exposure compared to other causes.

  2. Which industry labours are most prone to Cytosilicosis disease ?

    Asked in: HPPSC HPAS Prelims 2017

    1. Electric
    2. Computer
    3. Dairy
    4. Cement
    Show answer

    Answer: D. Cement

    Workers in industries where silica dust is generated are most prone to Silicosis. The cement industry involves handling and processing materials like limestone, clay, and sand (which contains silica), leading to significant dust exposure during various stages of production.

  3. Emetophobia is the fear of :

    Asked in: HAS Prelims 2019

    1. Vomiting
    2. Spiders
    3. Heights
    4. Tunnels
    Show answer

    Answer: A. Vomiting

    - Emetophobia is an intense and irrational fear related to vomiting, either one's own vomiting, seeing others vomit, seeing vomit, or feeling nauseous. - It is a specific phobia recognized in clinical psychology. - Other options represent different phobias: Arachnophobia (fear of spiders), Acrophobia (fear of heights), and Cleithrophobia/ Claustrophobia (fear of being trapped, which can relate to tunnels).

  4. Adulteration of mustard oil has led to several outbreaks of Epidemic Dropsy in India. Which one of the following contaminant is responsible for it ?

    Asked in: UPSC CAPF 2009

    1. Automobile oil
    2. Linseed oil
    3. Argemone oil
    4. Rapeseed oil
    Show answer

    Answer: C. Argemone oil

    - Epidemic Dropsy is caused by the consumption of edible oil contaminated with Argemone oil. - The toxic substance in Argemone oil is sanguinarine.

  5. If persons addicted to alcohol, the liver gets damaged because it

    Asked in: WBPSC CS Prelims 2019

    1. has to detoxify the alcohol.
    2. stores excess of glycon.
    3. is over stimulated to secrete more bile.
    4. accumulates excess of fats.
    Show answer

    Answer: A. has to detoxify the alcohol.

    Alcohol is metabolized in the liver through a series of enzymatic reactions that produce toxic byproducts, such as acetaldehyde. The liver's continuous effort to process large amounts of alcohol leads to inflammation, cell damage, and the accumulation of fat (fatty liver). Over time, this can progress to more severe conditions like alcoholic hepatitis and irreversible scarring (cirrhosis), severely impairing liver function.

  6. Which of the following disease is caused by the excessive use of alcoholic beverage ?

    Asked in: UPPSC Upper Mains 2008

    1. Appendicitis
    2. Viral hepatitis
    3. Gallstones
    4. Liver cirrhosis
    Show answer

    Answer: D. Liver cirrhosis

    Chronic and excessive alcohol consumption is a major cause of liver disease, ranging from fatty liver to alcoholic hepatitis and eventually liver cirrhosis. Liver cirrhosis is a severe condition where liver tissue is replaced by scar tissue, impairing liver function.

  7. Oral submucos fibrosis is a disease caused by

    Asked in: UPPSC Upper Mains 2014

    1. Drinking Liquor
    2. Smoking Tobbacco
    3. Consuming Gutka of Tobbacco
    4. Consuming Red Meat
    Show answer

    Answer: C. Consuming Gutka of Tobbacco

    Oral submucous fibrosis is a precancerous condition predominantly caused by chewing areca nut, commonly found in gutka and paan masala.

  8. Ochlophobia is

    Asked in: APPSC Gazated Posts 2012

    1. Fear of darkness
    2. Fear of Crowd
    3. Fear of loneliness
    4. Fear of Dream
    Show answer

    Answer: B. Fear of Crowd

    - Ochlophobia is derived from the Greek words 'ochlos' meaning crowd and 'phobos' meaning fear. - Phobias are a type of anxiety disorder characterized by a persistent and excessive fear of an object or situation.

Genetic and Chromosomal Disorders

  1. Ques #: 93 which disease can be caused by intake of alcohol or excess medicine, rubella, jaundice, premature baby, injury on the head of child at the time of birth, lack of oxygen? motor hearing impaired sensory hearing impaired mixed hearing impaired individual hearing impaired

    Asked in: Sr. Teacher Gr II (Spl. Edu.) 2015

    1. motor hearing impaired
    2. sensory hearing impaired
    3. mixed hearing impaired
    4. individual hearing impaired
    Show answer

    Answer: B. sensory hearing impaired

    Rubella, alcohol, excess medicine, jaundice, premature birth, head injury, and lack of oxygen are common causes of sensory hearing impairment.

  2. Ques #: 94 Rubella, alcohol intake, excessive medicine intake, jaundice, premature birth, head injury to the child at birth, lack of oxygen, etc. can be the cause of which impairment?

    Asked in: Sr. Teacher Gr II (Spl. Edu.) 2015

    1. Common hearing impairment
    2. Sensory hearing impairment
    3. Mixed hearing impairment
    4. Individual hearing impairment
    Show answer

    Answer: B. Sensory hearing impairment

    Factors such as rubella, alcohol, medication, jaundice, prematurity, birth injury, and oxygen deprivation are causes of sensory hearing impairment.

Mineral Deficiency Diseases

  1. Deficiency of fluoride leads to which one of the following health problems?

    Asked in: UPSC CDS 2 2016

    1. Tooth caries
    2. Mottling of tooth
    3. Bending of bones
    4. Stiffening of joints
    Show answer

    Answer: A. Tooth caries

    A deficiency of fluoride weakens tooth enamel, making teeth more susceptible to demineralization by acids produced by bacteria in the mouth. This process leads to the formation of cavities, known as tooth caries or tooth decay.

  2. 'Blue baby syndrome' is due to the presence of which of the following in the blood?

    Asked in: UPPCS Prelims 2021

    1. Haemoglobin
    2. Methemoglobin
    3. Lead
    4. Nitrate
    Show answer

    Answer: B. Methemoglobin

    'Blue baby syndrome', or methemoglobinemia, is a condition where a large amount of methemoglobin is produced in the blood. Methemoglobin is a form of haemoglobin that cannot bind oxygen. This leads to a reduced oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood, causing cyanosis (bluish discoloration of the skin and mucous membranes), particularly noticeable in infants.

  3. Deficiency of Iodine causes:

    Asked in: UPPCS Prelims 2017

    1. Night Blindness
    2. Cancer
    3. Goitre
    4. Osteoporosis
    Show answer

    Answer: C. Goitre

    Iodine is vital for thyroid hormone production; its deficiency leads to thyroid enlargement (goitre).

  4. Which of the following diseases are caused by the consumption of water contaminated by mercury and nitrate ?

    Asked in: UPSC CAPF 2017

    1. Minamata disease and Osteoporosis
    2. Osteoporosis and Blue Baby Syndrome
    3. Minamata disease and Blue Baby Syndrome
    4. Osteoporosis and Minamata disease
    Show answer

    Answer: C. Minamata disease and Blue Baby Syndrome

    Minamata disease is a neurological syndrome caused by severe mercury poisoning. It was first discovered in Minamata, Japan, caused by the release of methylmercury into industrial wastewater. Blue Baby Syndrome (Methemoglobinemia) is caused by the consumption of nitrates, especially in infants. Nitrates are converted to nitrites, which interfere with the oxygen-carrying capacity of hemoglobin, causing a bluish discoloration of the skin.

  5. Which one of the following is a major effect of long term consumption of drinking water containing little (less than 0.5 ppm) or no fluoride ?

    Asked in: UPSC CAPF 2017

    1. Cavity of tooth
    2. Erosion of nail
    3. Deformation of bone
    4. Mottling of tooth
    Show answer

    Answer: A. Cavity of tooth

    Fluoride in drinking water is crucial for maintaining dental health, particularly for strengthening tooth enamel and preventing cavities (dental caries). Long-term consumption of water with insufficient fluoride (less than 0.5 ppm, or no fluoride) leads to weaker enamel, making teeth more susceptible to acid attacks from bacteria and increasing the risk of cavities.

  6. Excess fluoride in drinking water causes

    Asked in: WBPSC CS Prelims 2020

    1. Lung disease
    2. Intestinal infection
    3. Fluorosis
    4. Rickets
    Show answer

    Answer: C. Fluorosis

    Fluoride is essential for dental health in optimal amounts, but excess intake is toxic and causes fluorosis. The safe limit for fluoride in drinking water is generally considered to be around 1.5 mg/L by WHO standards, although some guidelines recommend lower limits.

  7. Itai-Itai disease is caused by chronic poisoning of

    Asked in: UPPSC Upper Mains 2008

    1. Mercury
    2. Nickel
    3. Cadmium
    4. Lead
    Show answer

    Answer: C. Cadmium

    The disease was caused by cadmium contamination of the river water, which was used for irrigation of rice fields and as a source of drinking water. The cadmium came from mining activities upstream.

  8. The disease in which high levels of uric acid in the blood are characteristic, is

    Asked in: UPPSC Upper Mains 2009

    1. arthritis
    2. gout
    3. rheumatism
    4. rheumatism heart
    Show answer

    Answer: B. gout

    The question asks for the disease characterized by high levels of uric acid in the blood.

Obesity and Metabolic Syndrome

  1. A man, who does not know when to stop eating, is suffering from

    Asked in: UPPCS Prelims 2016

    1. bulimia
    2. diabetes
    3. anorexia nervosa
    4. hyperacidity
    Show answer

    Answer: A. bulimia

    Binge eating is consuming a large amount of food in a short period with a feeling of loss of control over eating during the episode. This lack of control is central to the question.

  2. What is "Bulimia"? - (5) Question not attempted

    Asked in: Protection Officer 2024

    1. Chromosomal disorder
    2. Eating disorder (Excessive appetite)
    3. Viral infection
    4. Parasitic infection
    Show answer

    Answer: B. Eating disorder (Excessive appetite)

    Bulimia is classified as an eating disorder, not a chromosomal disorder, viral infection, or parasitic infection. It involves abnormal eating patterns and concerns about body weight and shape.

  3. Being overweight or obese can have a serious impact on health. Which of the following statements are true about obesity? - To prevent overweight one should shift fat consumption away from unsaturated fats to saturated fats. - Carrying extra fat leads to serious health consequence such as cardiovascular disease. - Overweight may lead to type 2 diabetes and musculoskeletal disorder like osteoarthritis. - Overweight and obesity are largely preventable. Select the correct option using the codes given below.

    Asked in: GK CDPO 33 2023 2709 2024

    1. (i), (ii) and (iv)
    2. (i) and (ii) only
    3. (ii), (iii) and (iv)
    4. (i), (ii), (iii) and (iv)
    Show answer

    Answer: C. (ii), (iii) and (iv)

    Excess body fat leads to significant health risks including cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and musculoskeletal disorders. Overweight and obesity are preventable through lifestyle changes. Consumption of saturated fats should be limited, not increased, for weight management.

Protein-Energy Malnutrition (PEM)

  1. Kwashiorkor disease in children is caused by

    Asked in: UPSC CDS 1 2017

    1. sufficient carbohydrates but less fats in diet
    2. sufficient carbohydrates and fats but deficient proteins in diet
    3. sufficient vitamins but deficient fats in diet
    4. sufficient fats but deficient vitamins in diet
    Show answer

    Answer: B. sufficient carbohydrates and fats but deficient proteins in diet

    Kwashiorkor is a form of severe protein malnutrition characterized by edema (swelling) due to fluid retention, enlarged liver with fatty infiltrates, and stunted growth. It typically affects children who are weaned onto diets that are low in protein, even if they contain adequate calories from carbohydrates and fats.

  2. Kwashiorkor, a form of malnutrition, is caused by deficiency of which of the following ?

    Asked in: RPSC RAS Prelims 2024

    1. Carbohydrates
    2. Chromium
    3. Selenium
    4. Protein
    Show answer

    Answer: D. Protein

    Kwashiorkor is a severe form of protein-energy malnutrition characterized by edema (swelling), growth failure, and muscle wasting. It typically occurs in children who have been weaned and whose diet is deficient in protein, often relying heavily on carbohydrate-rich foods with inadequate protein content. While overall caloric intake might sometimes be sufficient to prevent severe weight loss (unlike Marasmus), the lack of protein leads to specific symptoms like swollen abdomen and legs due to fluid retention.

  3. In cataract the natural lens becomes cloudy because of change in which of the following?

    Asked in: RPSC RAS Prelims 2024

    1. Fat
    2. Tear glands
    3. Protein
    4. Carbohydrate
    Show answer

    Answer: C. Protein

    The natural lens of the eye is primarily made of water and proteins. These proteins are arranged in a specific way that keeps the lens clear and allows light to pass through. Cataract is a condition where these proteins begin to clump together and denature, leading to the scattering of light and causing the lens to become cloudy or opaque. This clouding obstructs vision. The process of cataract formation is essentially a change in the structure and arrangement of the lens proteins.

  4. Deficiency of protein leads to

    Asked in: Junior Accountant and TRA 2013

    1. Rickets
    2. Scurvy
    3. Kwashiorkor
    4. Carotenemia
    Show answer

    Answer: C. Kwashiorkor

    Protein-energy malnutrition (PEM) is a spectrum of conditions resulting from inadequate intake of energy and protein.

Vitamin Deficiency Diseases

  1. Match List-I (Disease) with List-II (Deficiency causing them) using the code given below the Lists : List-I List-II (Disease) (Deficiency causing them)

    Asked in: JPSC CS Prelims 2011

    1. Rickets 1. Vitamin D 2. Vitamin B12
    2. Beriberi
    3. Night blindness 3. Vitamin A
    4. Scurvy 4. Vitamin C Code : A. A-1, B-2, C-3, D-4 B. A-4, B-2, C-3, D-1 C. A-3, B-2, C-1, D-4 D. None of the above
    Show answer

    Answer: D. Scurvy 4. Vitamin C Code : A. A-1, B-2, C-3, D-4 B. A-4, B-2, C-3, D-1 C. A-3, B-2, C-1, D-4 D. None of the above

    - Rickets is due to Vitamin D deficiency. - Beriberi is due to Vitamin B1 deficiency. - Night blindness is due to Vitamin A deficiency. - Scurvy is due to Vitamin C deficiency. - The provided options contain incorrect pairings, especially for Beriberi.

  2. Scurvy disease is caused by

    Asked in: MPPSC CS Prelims 2021

    1. Vitamin 'A'
    2. Vitamin 'B12'
    3. Vitamin 'D'
    4. Vitamin 'C'
    Show answer

    Answer: D. Vitamin 'C'

    Scurvy is a disease characterized by weakness, anemia, bruising, bleeding gums, and loose teeth. It results from a lack of Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) in the diet, which is essential for collagen synthesis.

  3. Which one among the following diseases is caused due to deficiency of Vitamin D in humans ?

    Asked in: UPSC NDA 2 2024

    1. Beriberi
    2. Scurvy
    3. Rickets
    4. Pneumonia
    Show answer

    Answer: C. Rickets

    Vitamin D is essential for calcium and phosphate absorption and bone health. Deficiency can lead to impaired bone mineralization, resulting in Rickets in children and Osteomalacia in adults.

  4. Myopia is also known as _____ .

    Asked in: OPSC CS Prelims 2016

    1. Far sightedness
    2. Poor sightedness
    3. Extreme sightedness
    4. Near sightedness
    Show answer

    Answer: D. Near sightedness

    In myopia, the eyeball is typically longer than average, or the cornea is too curved, causing the light to converge too strongly.

  5. Match the following vitamin deficiencies with their associated health problems : Vitamin deficiency Health problem

    Asked in: TSPSC Group 1 Prelims 2024

    1. Vitamin A I. Beriberi
    2. Vitamin B1 II. Night blindness
    3. Vitamin D III. Scurvy
    4. Vitamin C IV. Rickets Choose the correct answer : A. A-II; B-I; C-III; D-IV B. A-I; B-III; C-II; D-IV C. A-II; B-I; C-IV; D-III D. A-III; B-II; C-I; D-IV
    Show answer

    Answer: C. Vitamin D III. Scurvy

    Let's match the vitamin deficiencies with their corresponding health problems: - A. Vitamin A deficiency leads to night blindness (II) and can progress to more severe eye problems. - B. Vitamin B1 (Thiamine) deficiency causes Beriberi (I), affecting the nervous system, cardiovascular system, and digestive system. - C. Vitamin D deficiency causes Rickets (IV) in children, a condition characterized by softening and weakening of bones, and Osteomalacia in adults. - D. Vitamin C (Ascorbic acid) deficiency causes Scurvy (III), characterized by fatigue, gum disease, skin problems, and poor wound healing.

  6. Use of polished rice in human diet causes the following disease

    Asked in: UPPCS Prelims 2019 · WBCS Main Paper 4 2022

    1. Beriberi
    2. Goitre
    3. Night blindness
    4. Colour blindness
    Show answer

    Answer: A. Beriberi

    Polished rice is rice that has had its husk, bran, and germ removed through milling. This process removes significant amounts of nutrients, particularly Vitamin B1 (thiamine), which is concentrated in the bran and germ. A diet heavily reliant on polished rice without adequate intake of other thiamine-rich foods can lead to thiamine deficiency, which causes the disease Beriberi.

  7. Use of polished rice in human diet causes following diseases

    Asked in: UPPCS Prelims 2020

    1. Rickets
    2. Anemia
    3. Goitre
    4. Beriberi
    Show answer

    Answer: D. Beriberi

    Polishing rice removes the outer layers and the germ, which contain essential nutrients, particularly thiamine (Vitamin B1). A diet consisting primarily of polished rice without adequate intake of other thiamine-rich foods can lead to thiamine deficiency, which causes the disease Beriberi.

  8. Night blindness is caused by the deficiency of

    Asked in: UPSC CISF AC EXE 2017

    1. Vitamin C
    2. Vitamin A
    3. Vitamin K
    4. Vitamin B
    Show answer

    Answer: B. Vitamin A

    Vitamin A is essential for the formation of rhodopsin, a pigment found in the rod cells of the retina that is crucial for vision in low light conditions. A deficiency leads to impaired night vision (nyctalopia).