Choose one concept in our lesson today, give a brief explanation about the concept and cite how would you apply this learning in your everyday life.
- Among the concepts ingrained in my mind are aging and immunity. Most people become more susceptible to all forms of illnesses and cancers as they age. Their vaccination response is diminished, and they develop more autoantibodies (antibodies against their own body's molecules). In addition, the immune system demonstrates diminished function. T cells, for instance, become less sensitive to antigens, and fewer T cells respond to infections. This may be due to age-related thymic atrophy or diminished thymic hormone synthesis. As the T cell population declines with age, the responsiveness of B cells likewise declines. As a result, antibody levels do not rise as quickly in response to an antigen challenge, resulting in an increased vulnerability to various illnesses. This is the primary reason why seniors are urged to receive influenza (flu) vaccinations annually. Insights like this at such a tender young age will help me remember the need of taking care of my body and avoiding harmful behaviors, both now and later in life, when my immune system is more vulnerable due to aging. Taking good care of my body by doing things like getting regular shots, taking vitamins, staying away from bad habits, getting plenty of exercise, and eating nutritious food.