Which determinant of health includes predisposition to a disease inherited from one or both parents?

Prepare for the WGU D583 Foundations in Public Health Exam with engaging flashcards and multiple-choice questions. Each question comes with detailed hints and explanations to ensure your success. Get exam-ready now!

The correct answer is rooted in the concept of genetic determinants of health, which refer specifically to the traits and characteristics that individuals inherit from their parents. These genetic factors can significantly influence the likelihood of developing certain diseases and health conditions.

For instance, conditions such as cystic fibrosis, sickle cell anemia, and certain forms of cancer can be linked directly to genetic mutations passed down through generations. This inherited predisposition is a critical aspect of public health as it affects individuals' risk profiles and can influence the overall burden of disease in populations.

In contrast, social determinants pertain to the conditions in which people are born, grow, live, work, and age, impacting health indirectly through lifestyle and access to resources. Environmental determinants involve factors related to the physical surroundings, including air and water quality, which can also influence health but are not inherited. Behavioral determinants focus on individual lifestyle choices and activities, such as diet and exercise, which can affect health outcomes but again, are distinct from genetic predispositions. This distinction is essential in understanding the multifaceted nature of health determinants and their respective impacts.

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