7.13: Summary
Major diseases often have a biological cause, or causes, that provide the opportunity for treatment and prevention. Communicable or infectious diseases are caused by microbial agents, and noncommunicable chronic diseases often have other genetic, environmental, and behavioral factors that contribute to their development. All diseases are affected by other factors like poverty and access to healthcare, that we collectively call the Social Determinants of Health (SDOH) - these will be covered next in chapter 8. Understanding the biological basis of diseases and their pathogenesis allows for the research and development of new vaccines, therapies, and treatments, and helps public health officials create coordinated, effective strategies for prevention.