Ecological and Evolutionary Approach in Medical Anthropology

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What is the main assertion of the ecological/evolutionary approach in medical anthropology?

All humans live in a world full of microbes, including bacteria, viruses, prions, fungi, protozoa, and multi-cellular parasites.

According to Omran and Armelagos, what denotes the shift in epidemiological transitions?

A shift from foraging to food production, which leads to ecological impacts, reduced dietary diversity, impaired nutrition, and health issues.

How do infections arise according to the diagram presented in the text?

Infections arise when microbes have pathogenic biological characteristics, are out of place, or compromise the immune system.

What is the impact of globalization on the spread of infectious diseases?

Globalization enables the brisk movement of infectious diseases around the world. Signup and view all the answers

What role does culture play in predisposing individuals to certain diseases?

Culture can predispose individuals to acquire certain diseases. Signup and view all the answers

How do anthropologists contribute to addressing public health emergencies?

Anthropologists become interventionists by engaging with affected communities and stakeholders. Signup and view all the answers

How does the third health transition intensify health challenges?

Poverty combines with urbanization and dissolution of traditional family structures. Signup and view all the answers

Why do anthropologists argue that humans are invariably in transition?

There has been a historical shift from foraging to food production, and this transition continues through contemporary times including the era of globalization. Signup and view all the answers

What are some examples of new infectious diseases mentioned in the text?

HIV/AIDS, SARS, Ebola, Zika, avian influenza Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of the collaborative research effort between medical anthropologists and epidemiologists?

The research recorded that environmental changes can be associated with the rise of global health problems. Signup and view all the answers

What role do medical anthropologists play in epidemiology?

They document and assess emergent patterns of illness behavior and causes. Signup and view all the answers

What weakens the effectiveness of drugs like antibiotics in controlling infectious diseases?

Microbial adaptation to medicines Signup and view all the answers

What are zoonoses and how can humans get infected by them?

Zoonoses are diseases that can be transmitted from animals to humans. Humans can get infected through insect bites, eating contaminated flesh, and wounds inflicted by animals. Signup and view all the answers

Describe the zoonotic disease trichinosis and how humans can acquire it.

Trichinosis is caused by parasitic worms affecting wild animals. Humans can acquire it by consuming raw or uncooked meat from infected animals. Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of the Neolithic era or agricultural revolution in human history?

The Neolithic era marked the transition from nomadic hunting and gathering to agriculture and settlement. It led to population growth, food surpluses, and increased interactions with domesticated animals. Signup and view all the answers

Explain the concept of epidemiological transitions.

Epidemiological transitions refer to shifts in disease patterns within populations over time. They are often associated with changes in lifestyle, environment, and healthcare. Signup and view all the answers

What role do medical anthropologists play in understanding infectious diseases?

Medical anthropologists study the cultural, social, and environmental factors that influence the spread and impact of infectious diseases. They provide valuable insights for disease prevention and control. Signup and view all the answers

How does globalization influence the spread of infectious diseases?

Globalization increases the interconnectedness of people, goods, and information, facilitating the rapid spread of infectious diseases across borders. Travel, trade, and urbanization are key drivers of disease globalization. Signup and view all the answers