Which statement best describes inherited diseases?

• A. They are caused by bacteria and can spread between people.
• B. They are passed through genetics from parents and can be passed to offspring.
• C. They develop from poor lifestyle choices and are not contagious.
• D. They are caused by viruses and are always contagious.

Answer: (B)

Inherited diseases are caused by genetic changes that are passed from parents to their children. This means the condition is in the DNA and can be transmitted to offspring, reflecting a family history of the trait. It’s not caused by germs or external agents, and these conditions aren’t spread from person to person like infections. Some inherited diseases are present at birth, while others may show up later as genes are expressed or interact with other factors. Examples include cystic fibrosis, sickle cell anemia, and hemophilia, all arising from hereditary gene mutations. In contrast, diseases caused by bacteria or viruses involve pathogens and can be contagious, and those linked to lifestyle arise from choices rather than inherited genetic changes, so they don’t fit the definition of inherited diseases.