Which term describes a disease that can be transmitted from one sufferer to another?

• A. Communicable
• B. Noninfectious
• C. Genetic
• D. Sporadic

Answer: (A)

Communicable diseases are those that can be transmitted from one person to another through direct contact, droplets, contaminated surfaces, or vectors. This makes them capable of spreading among people, unlike conditions that arise without infection or cannot be passed on. For example, illnesses like influenza or measles can move from an infected person to others. In contrast, noninfectious diseases are not caused by pathogens and aren’t spread between people (such as hypertension or a broken bone). Genetic conditions are inherited from birth and aren’t transmitted through everyday contact, and sporadic conditions occur irregularly without a consistent pattern or spread.