Essential Biology: Bacteria Functions, Disease Prevention, and Health Facts
Beneficial Roles and Industrial Uses of Bacteria
Bacteria perform several vital activities, including:
- Aiding digestion and nutrient production in the human gut.
- Acting as decomposers in ecosystems to recycle organic matter and maintain soil fertility.
- Contributing significantly to the carbon and nitrogen cycles.
They are also crucial in industry, used for:
- Producing fermented foods like yogurt and cheese.
- Manufacturing antibiotics and other pharmaceuticals.
- Cleaning up oil spills (bioremediation).
- Controlling insect pests in agriculture.
Bacteria in Human Health and Digestion
- Gut Microbiome: Billions of bacteria in the human intestines help break down food and absorb nutrients, contributing to overall health.
- Immune System Support: Bacteria in the gut can also help protect the body against invading pathogens.
- Vitamin Production: Some gut bacteria produce essential vitamins that the body needs.
Notes on Infectious Diseases
Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Measles
This section provides information on Diphtheria, a serious bacterial infection, often discussed alongside other major infectious diseases like Tetanus and Measles.
Diphtheria
Diphtheria (pronounced dif-THEER-e-uh) is a serious bacterial infection that usually affects the mucous membranes of the nose and throat. Thanks to widespread vaccination against the disease, Diphtheria is extremely rare in the United States and other developed countries.
Cancer: Definition, Symptoms, and Treatments
Cancer is a disease characterized by the uncontrollable growth and spread of abnormal cells, which can form malignant tumors that invade other tissues.
Common Symptoms of Cancer
Symptoms vary widely depending on the type and location of the cancer, but can include:
- Unhealed sores.
- Changes in bowel or bladder habits.
- Unexplained bleeding or bruising.
- Lumps or thickening of tissue.
- Persistent cough or hoarseness.
Cancer Treatment Options
Treatment options depend on the type and stage of cancer, and are often used in combination. These include:
- Surgery
- Radiation therapy
- Chemotherapy
- Hormone therapy
- Immunotherapy
- Targeted therapies
Protecting Yourself from Germs and Illness
To protect yourself from germs, practice good hygiene and maintain preventative measures. This minimizes germ exposure and prevents the spread of illness.
Key Hygiene Practices
Practice good hygiene by washing your hands frequently with soap and water or using an alcohol-based sanitizer, especially before eating and after using the restroom or being in public places. Also, avoid touching your face, cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or elbow when coughing or sneezing, and stay home when sick.
Detailed Hygiene Steps
- Wash Your Hands: Use soap and water to scrub for at least 20 seconds after using the toilet, before eating, and after coughing, sneezing, or touching animals. If soap and water aren’t available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.
- Cover Coughs and Sneezes: Use a tissue to cover your mouth and nose, or use the inside of your elbow if a tissue isn’t handy.
- Avoid Touching Your Face: Try not to touch your eyes, nose, and mouth, as these are common entry points for germs.
- Practice Food Safety: Handle, cook, and store food properly to prevent the spread of germs.
- Clean and Disinfect: Regularly clean and disinfect high-touch surfaces in your home and workplace.
When You Are Sick
- Stay Home: If you are sick, stay home to avoid spreading germs to others.
- Limit Contact: Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
Other Preventative Measures
- Get Vaccinated: Vaccines are an effective way to prevent specific diseases.
- Stay Healthy: Eating a healthy diet and getting enough sleep can support your immune system’s ability to fight off germs.
- Use Barriers: When using shared equipment at the gym or on public transportation, consider using a towel or barrier between your skin and the surface.