UPSC Mains Topic Wise Questions – Science & Technology – Health including Medicine

Q1. Why is HIV considered so dangerous? Why has the spread of the virus proved so difficult to contain, especially in the poorer countries of the world? (2000, 30 Marks) 

Answer:

HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) poses a grave threat due to its insidious attack on the body’s immune system. Unlike other illnesses, HIV doesn’t directly cause sickness. Instead, it cripples the body’s natural defense mechanisms, leaving individuals vulnerable to a multitude of “opportunistic infections” – diseases that wouldn’t normally pose a threat to a healthy immune system. These infections, along with certain cancers, become the primary cause of morbidity and mortality in HIV patients. 

Containing the spread of HIV proves especially challenging in poorer countries for several reasons. 

• Socioeconomic Factors: Poverty often restricts access to education and awareness campaigns, leading to a lack of understanding about transmission and prevention methods. Limited access to healthcare further impedes early diagnosis and treatment. 
• Sexual Transmission: HIV is primarily transmitted through unprotected sexual contact. Socioeconomic factors can increase vulnerability to risky sexual behavior, such as transactional sex or limited access to condoms. 
• Stigma and Discrimination: Deep-rooted social stigma surrounding HIV discourages people from getting tested or seeking treatment, fearing social isolation and economic hardship. This not only delays their own access to care but also increases the risk of unknowingly transmitting the virus. 
• Weaker Healthcare Systems: Resource-constrained healthcare systems in developing countries often struggle to provide affordable and accessible Antiretroviral Therapy (ART), the medication that can significantly suppress the virus and prevent complications. 

These factors create a vicious cycle, perpetuating the spread of HIV and hindering efforts towards control. 

However, advancements in treatment and prevention strategies, coupled with targeted interventions addressing the social determinants of health, offer a glimmer of hope. 

Q2. Write about Anthrax. (2003, 2 Marks) 

Answer:

Anthrax, a serious bacterial disease from Bacillus anthracis, affects animals (grazers) and humans (through contact). Spores in soil can lie dormant for years before infecting through skin, inhalation, or ingestion. Early detection is crucial for antibiotic treatment. Vaccines exist for high-risk individuals. 

Q3. Write a note on use of Information Technology in health management in India. (in 125 words) (2005,10 Marks) 

Answer:

Information Technology (IT) is revolutionizing healthcare management in India. Electronic Health Records (EHRs) ensure data accuracy and accessibility, improving diagnosis and treatment. Telemedicine bridges geographical gaps, providing specialist consultations in remote areas. Healthcare Management Information Systems (HMIS) streamline administrative tasks, reducing errors and improving efficiency. Additionally, IT empowers patients through appointment scheduling and online portals for health information access. 

While challenges like digital literacy and infrastructure limitations persist, effective implementation of IT holds immense potential to enhance access to quality healthcare across India. 

Q4. Write brief note on Aspartame. (2008, 2 marks) 

Answer:

Aspartame, a dipeptide 200 times sweeter than sugar, is the most common artificial sweetener. Approved by global bodies like FAO/WHO, it breaks down into amino acids during digestion, providing minimal calories. However, its long-term safety remains a subject of some debate. 

Q5. Write brief note on Gene doping. (2008, 2 marks) 

Answer:

Gene doping uses gene editing to enhance athletic performance, potentially undetectable. It’s banned by WADA due to unfair advantage and unknown health risks. 

Q6. The last National Family Health Survey (NFHS) displayed a very dismal picture of nutrition as regards several indicators for average Indians. Highlight the salient aspects of this problem. (2009, 15 Marks) 

Answer:

The latest National Family Health Survey (NFHS) paints a concerning picture of widespread nutritional deficiencies among Indians. This essay highlights the salient aspects of this problem: 

• Micronutrient Deficiencies: High prevalence of anaemia, particularly among women and children, indicates a lack of iron, vitamin B12, and folate. This can lead to fatigue, impaired cognitive development, and increased maternal mortality. 
• Dietary Imbalances: Diets often lack essential vitamins and minerals due to insufficient consumption of fruits, vegetables, and pulses. This is coupled with an excess of refined carbohydrates and unhealthy fats, contributing to non-communicable diseases like diabetes and heart disease. 
• Socioeconomic Disparities: Nutritional deficiencies are more pronounced among poorer households, highlighting the link between poverty and food insecurity. Limited access to diverse and nutritious food due to affordability issues further exacerbates the problem. 
• Gender Bias: Unequal distribution of food within households often disadvantages girls and women, leading to undernourishment and hindering their overall well-being. 

These deficiencies pose a significant challenge to India’s human capital development. They impact physical growth, cognitive function, and overall health, potentially hindering economic productivity and social progress. 

Addressing the Crisis: 

• Public health initiatives: Promoting dietary diversification, educating about balanced meals, and fortifying staple foods can improve micronutrient intake. 
• Targeted interventions: Focusing on vulnerable groups like pregnant women, children, and low-income families through Anganwadis and targeted food security programs is crucial. 
• Agricultural reforms: Encouraging production and consumption of fruits, vegetables, and pulses can enhance dietary diversity and address affordability concerns. 
• Women’s empowerment: Ensuring equal access to food within households and promoting women’s education can have a cascading effect on nutritional well-being. 

Tackling this complex issue requires a multi-pronged approach involving government agencies, civil society, and individuals. By prioritizing nutritional well-being, India can invest in a healthier and more productive future for its citizens. 

Q7. Write about Ayush-64 in about 20 words. (2009, 2 Marks) 

Answer:

Ayush-64 is a government program that offers 64 essential Ayurveda, Yoga and Unani medicines at subsidized rates to ensure their affordability and accessibility. 

Q8. Why is tele-medicine important for a country like India? (2009,10 Marks) 

Answer:

India’s vast geography and uneven distribution of healthcare professionals create a significant barrier to accessing quality medical care, especially in rural areas. Tele-medicine emerges as a critical solution to address this challenge. 

• Addressing Specialist Scarcity: A stark imbalance exists between specialist concentrations in urban areas and the dearth in rural regions. Tele-medicine bridges this gap by facilitating remote consultations with specialists, ensuring rural populations receive timely and expert care. 
• Overcoming Infrastructure Limitations: Limited transportation infrastructure in rural areas often makes travel to medical facilities difficult and time-consuming. Tele-medicine consultations eliminate travel constraints, improving accessibility to healthcare. 
• Optimizing Resource Allocation: India’s high disease burden strains healthcare resources. Tele-medicine consultations for non-critical cases alleviate pressure on overwhelmed primary care facilities, allowing doctors to prioritize critical in-person care. 

By enhancing access to specialist consultations, reducing travel burdens, and optimizing resource allocation, tele-medicine holds immense potential to revolutionize healthcare delivery in India, making it more accessible, affordable, and equitable. 

Q9. What is phytoremediation? Discuss its applications. (2010, 12 Marks) 

Answer:

Phytoremediation is a bioremediation technique that utilizes plants to remove, degrade, or immobilize contaminants in soil, water, and air. It harnesses the natural ability of certain plants, called hyperaccumulators, to absorb and accumulate pollutants like heavy metals and organic compounds. 

This eco-friendly approach offers several advantages over traditional methods. It’s cost-effective, relies on solar energy for plant growth, and improves soil health. 

Applications of phytoremediation are diverse. It can be used to clean up industrial waste sites, agricultural runoff areas, and even sites contaminated with oil spills. Additionally, it can help manage air pollution by absorbing gaseous pollutants through leaves. 

While effective for specific contaminants, phytoremediation may take longer than conventional methods. Further research is needed to optimize plant selection and improve efficiency. 

In conclusion, phytoremediation offers a promising and sustainable approach for environmental cleanup, deserving consideration in India’s environmental management strategies. 

Q10. Discuss the applications of nanotechnology in the health care sector. (2010, 12 Marks) 

Answer:

Nanotechnology, the manipulation of matter at the atomic and molecular scale, is transforming healthcare. Here’s a glimpse into its applications: 

• Drug Delivery: Nanoparticles can be designed to target specific cells, minimizing side effects and maximizing drug efficacy in diseases like cancer. 
• Diagnostics: Biosensors using nanoparticles enable rapid, point-of-care diagnosis of infections and even genetic disorders. Imagine on-site disease detection in remote areas. 
• Imaging: Nanoparticles enhance contrast in imaging techniques like MRI and ultrasound, leading to earlier and more accurate disease detection. 
• Tissue Engineering: Nanofibers can be used in artificial implants and scaffolds to promote tissue regeneration for wound healing and organ repair. 
• Antimicrobial Surfaces: Nanoparticles like silver can be incorporated into medical devices to combat hospital-acquired infections, a significant challenge. 

Nanotechnology offers immense potential for personalized medicine, early disease detection, and targeted therapies, ushering in a new era of healthcare. However, safety considerations and long-term impact require further research. 

Q11. Comment on MRSA infection. (2010, 5 Marks) 

Answer:

MRSA, Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, is a serious infection caused by antibiotic-resistant staph bacteria. It can cause skin infections, pneumonia, and bloodstream infections. While hospital-acquired MRSA (HA-MRSA) is a concern, community-acquired MRSA (CA-MRSA) is rising, posing challenges for public health due to limited treatment options. 

Q12. Comment on Ginkgo Biloba. (2010, 5 Marks) 

Answer:

Ginkgo biloba, a living fossil, holds promise for cognitive health. Research suggests potential benefits for memory and circulation, but conclusive evidence is lacking. Consult a doctor before use due to possible drug interactions. 

Q13. Write about new initiatives during the 11th Five Years Plan in the National Programme for Control of Blindness (NPCB). (2011, 12 Marks)

Answer:

The 11th Five Year Plan (2007-2012) of the National Programme for Control of Blindness (NPCB) witnessed a strategic shift towards broader eye care. While continuing its focus on cataract surgery, new initiatives emerged: 

• Addressing Childhood Blindness: Programs for early detection and intervention of childhood blindness were introduced. 

• Refractive Error Correction: Distribution of free spectacles for refractive errors, a significant cause of visual impairment, gained momentum. 
• Diabetic Retinopathy Management: Recognition of the growing diabetic population led to initiatives for diabetic retinopathy screening and treatment. 
• Strengthening Infrastructure: A focus on establishing Multipurpose District Mobile Ophthalmic Units (MDMOUs) aimed to improve outreach in underserved areas. 

These initiatives aimed to prevent blindness beyond cataracts and ensure comprehensive eye care access for the Indian population. 

Q14. Write about the Community-Led Total Sanitation (CLTS) approach to sanitation. (2011, 5 Marks) 

Answer:

Community-Led Total Sanitation (CLTS) empowers rural communities to recognize the downsides of open defecation and collaboratively find solutions. Facilitators trigger a sense of disgust through exercises, prompting communities to build low-cost toilets and achieve open defecation-free status. 

Q15. Write about the first-aid that you can safely administer to a person standing next to you at the bus-stop who suddenly faints. (2011, 5 Marks) 

Answer:

Safely assist the unconscious person by laying them flat. Elevate their legs to increase blood flow to the brain. Loosen any restrictive clothing. If unresponsive after a minute, call emergency services and check for breathing/pulse. 

Q16. Write about Omega-3 fatty acids in our food. (2011, 5 Marks) 

Answer:

Omega-3s, essential fatty acids, are crucial for brain function, heart health, and immunity. Rich sources include fatty fish (salmon, mackerel) and flaxseeds. While plant-based ALA conversion to beneficial EPA/DHA is limited, incorporating a variety of these foods can significantly enhance your dietary intake. 

Q17. What do you understnad by the term ‘Multi-Drug Resistant Tuberculosis’ (MDR-TB)? What measures would you advocate for its containment and what are the implications of its spread in the community? (2012, 15 Marks) 

Answer:

MDR-TB is a critical public health concern caused by tuberculosis bacteria resistant to at least isoniazid and rifampicin, the two most effective frontline medications. This significantly complicates treatment, requiring longer durations, stronger drugs with harsher side effects, and raising treatment costs. 

Containment Measures: 

• Early diagnosis & adherence: Strengthening diagnostic capacity and ensuring completion of full treatment schedules for regular TB are crucial to prevent MDR-TB emergence. 
• Infection control: Implementing proper isolation protocols in healthcare facilities and promoting cough etiquette in communities minimizes transmission. 
• Drug-resistant TB programs: Investing in robust programs that track MDR-TB cases, ensure access to effective second-line drugs, and provide patient support are essential. 

Implications of Uncontrolled Spread: 

• Increased morbidity & mortality: MDR-TB treatment is less effective, leading to more severe illness and higher death rates. 
• Healthcare burden: Lengthy and expensive treatment strains healthcare systems. 
• Social stigma: Misconceptions around MDR-TB can lead to social isolation of patients, hindering adherence and community education. 

Addressing MDR-TB requires a multi-pronged approach at the clinical and community level to effectively control this growing threat. 

Q18. Many food items contain ‘Trans fats’. What do you understand by this term? Which Indian food items contain trans ‘fats’? What are the implications of trans fats on human health? (2012, 15 Marks) 

Answer:

Trans fats are unsaturated fats created by partially hydrogenating vegetable oils. This process increases shelf life but introduces health risks. 

Indian foods high in trans fats include: 

• Fried items: Samosas, pakoras, puris (when made with vanaspati ghee) 
• Sweets: Gulab jamun, jalebis (due to reuse of frying oil) 
• Bakery products: Biscuits, cakes, pastries (made with partially hydrogenated fats) 

Trans fat consumption is linked to increased risk of: 

• Heart disease: Raises bad cholesterol (LDL) and lowers good cholesterol (HDL). 
• Type 2 diabetes: Can impair insulin sensitivity. 
• Inflammation: Chronic inflammation linked to various health issues. 

India aims for a “Trans-fat Free India@75” by 2022, promoting healthier fat options like mustard oil and desi ghee. 

Q19. The Human Papilloma Virus vaccine has been making the headlines in the recent months. Who make the ideal candidates for receiving this vaccine and what are its benefits? (2012, 5 Marks) 

Answer:

Ideal candidates for the HPV vaccine are boys and girls aged 9-14, offering maximum protection before potential exposure. It’s also recommended for young adults up to 26. The vaccine safeguards against HPV-linked cancers and genital warts, promoting public health. 

Q20. What do you understand by Fixed Dose Drug Combinations (FDCs)? Discuss their merits and demerits. (200 words) (2013, 10 marks) 

Answer:

Fixed Dose Combinations (FDCs) are medications containing two or more active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) in a predetermined ratio within a single dosage form. They are prevalent in India’s healthcare landscape. 

Merits of FDCs: 

• Improved Patient Adherence: FDCs simplify treatment regimens, especially for chronic diseases, by reducing the pill burden and simplifying medication schedules. This can lead to better treatment outcomes. 
• Enhanced Therapeutic Effect: Certain FDCs offer synergistic benefits, where the combined action of drugs produces a greater effect than individual drugs alone. 
• Cost-Effectiveness: In some cases, FDCs can be more economical than purchasing separate medications. 

Demerits of FDCs: 

• Limited Individualization: FDCs restrict dose flexibility, making it difficult to tailor treatment to a patient’s specific needs or adjust for side effects. 
• Potential for Over/Under-Dosing: A fixed dose may not be optimal for all patients, leading to over-medication of one component or under-medication of another. 
• Increased Risk of Adverse Reactions: Combining drugs raises the possibility of unforeseen interactions and adverse reactions. 
• Scientific Scrutiny: Concerns exist regarding the scientific rationale for some FDCs, with questions about their effectiveness and potential for over-prescription. 

Conclusion: 

FDCs offer convenience and potential benefits, but their use requires careful evaluation. Striking a balance between promoting rational use of FDCs and ensuring patient safety is crucial. The government and medical bodies play a vital role in regulating FDCs and promoting their judicious prescription. 

Q21. Can overuse and free availability of antibiotics without Doctor’s prescription, be contributors to the emergence of drug-resistant diseases in India? What are the available mechanisms for monitoring and control? Critically discuss the various issues involved. (2014, 12 Marks) 

Answer:

Yes, overuse and unrestricted access to antibiotics significantly contribute to Anti-Microbial Resistance (AMR) in India. 

• Self-medication: Unaware of the nuances of antibiotic use, people misuse them for viral infections or incomplete courses, allowing bacteria to develop resistance. 
• Weak regulation: Easy availability over-the-counter exposes bacteria to antibiotics unnecessarily, accelerating resistance. 

Monitoring and Control Mechanisms: 

• The AMR Surveillance Network monitors trends in resistance. 
• The Government emphasizes prescription guidelines and discourages over-the-counter sales. 

Critical Issues: 

• Public awareness: Educating the public on appropriate antibiotic use is crucial. 
• Enforcement: Stricter enforcement of regulations to curb over-the-counter sales is needed. 
• Alternative therapies: Researching and developing alternative treatments for non-bacterial illnesses can reduce reliance on antibiotics. 

Addressing these issues is vital to combat AMR and ensure the continued efficacy of antibiotics in India. 

Q22. Why is nanotechnology one of the key technologies of the 21st century? Describe the salient features of Indian Government’s Mission on Nanoscience and Technology and the scope of its application in the development process of the country. (2016, 12 Marks) 

Answer:

Nanotechnology’s ability to manipulate matter at the atomic and molecular scale (1-100 nanometers) grants it unique properties with transformative potential across sectors. This makes it a cornerstone technology of the 21st century. 

The Government of India’s Mission on Nanoscience and Technology (Nano Mission) recognizes this potential. Its key features include: 

• Infrastructure Development: Establishing linkages between research institutions, industry, and academia to foster innovation and commercialization. 
• Human Resource Development: Creating a skilled workforce through training programs to address the specialized manpower needs of this field. 
• International Collaboration: Promoting global partnerships to leverage expertise and accelerate advancements. 

Nanotechnology’s applications hold immense promise for India’s development: 

• Medicine: Early disease detection, targeted drug delivery, and development of novel biomaterials. 
• Agriculture: Enhanced crop yield, improved water management, and creation of nano-sensors for soil monitoring. 
• Energy: Development of more efficient solar cells, cleaner sources, and improved energy storage solutions. 
• Materials Science: Creation of stronger, lighter, and self-cleaning materials for diverse applications. 

By harnessing nanotechnology’s potential through the Nano Mission, India can address critical challenges and propel itself towards a more sustainable and prosperous future. 

Q23. Stem cell therapy is gaining popularity in India to treat a wide variety of medical conditions including Leukeamia, Thalassemia, damaged cornea and severe burns. Describe briefly what stem cell therapy is and what advantages it has over other treatments? (150 words) (2017, 10 marks) 

Answer:

Stem cell therapy harnesses the potential of stem cells, the body’s master cells, to differentiate into specialized cell types. This minimally invasive technique offers a revolutionary approach for treating various ailments. 

Advantages over Traditional Treatments: 

• Regeneration: Unlike conventional treatments that manage symptoms, stem cells can potentially regenerate damaged tissues, offering a potential cure for chronic conditions like Thalassemia. 
• Reduced Reliance on Organ Donation: In cases like severe burns, stem cells can promote new skin growth, circumventing the limitations of traditional skin grafting. 
• Targeted Treatment: Stem cells can be directed to differentiate into specific cell types, potentially offering a more targeted approach for diseases like Leukemia. 

While still in its early stages, stem cell therapy holds immense promise for revolutionizing healthcare in India. However, further research is crucial to ensure its efficacy and safety for a wider range of conditions. 

Q24. The COVID-19 pandemic has caused unprecedented devastation worldwide. However, technological advancements are being availed readily to win over the crisis. Give an account of how technology was sought to aid the management of the pandemic. (250 words) (2020, 15 marks)  

Answer:

Stem cell therapy harnesses the potential of stem cells, the body’s master cells, to differentiate into specialized cell types. This minimally invasive technique offers a revolutionary approach for treating various ailments. 

Advantages over Traditional Treatments: 

• Regeneration: Unlike conventional treatments that manage symptoms, stem cells can potentially regenerate damaged tissues, offering a potential cure for chronic conditions like Thalassemia. 
• Reduced Reliance on Organ Donation: In cases like severe burns, stem cells can promote new skin growth, circumventing the limitations of traditional skin grafting. 
• Targeted Treatment: Stem cells can be directed to differentiate into specific cell types, potentially offering a more targeted approach for diseases like Leukemia. 

While still in its early stages, stem cell therapy holds immense promise for revolutionizing healthcare in India. However, further research is crucial to ensure its efficacy and safety for a wider range of conditions. 

Q25. The increase in life expectancy in the country has led to newer health challenges in the community. What are those challenges and what steps need to be taken to meet them? (150 words) (2022, 10 marks) 

Answer:

While increased life expectancy is a positive indicator, it presents new healthcare challenges: 

• Chronic Diseases: With longer lifespans, the prevalence of non-communicable diseases like heart disease, diabetes, and cancer rises. Healthcare systems need to prioritize management and treatment of these conditions. 
• Geriatric Care: An aging population demands specialized geriatric care infrastructure, including assisted living facilities and trained professionals. 
• Mental Health: Age-related issues like dementia and increased social isolation can exacerbate mental health problems. Mental health awareness and accessible services are crucial. 

Meeting these challenges requires a multi-pronged approach: 

• Preventive healthcare: Public health campaigns promoting healthy lifestyles and early disease detection can significantly reduce the burden of chronic diseases. 
• Strengthening healthcare infrastructure: Increased investment in healthcare facilities, geriatric care units, and trained personnel is essential. 
• Focus on mental health: Mental health awareness campaigns, subsidized mental health services, and support groups for the elderly are necessary. 

By proactively addressing these issues, we can ensure a healthy and dignified life for our growing elderly population. 

Q26. What is the basic principle behind vaccine development? How do vaccines work? What approaches were adopted by the Indian vaccine manufacturers to produce COVID-19 vaccines? (250 words) (2022, 15 Marks) 

Asnwer:

Basic Principle: Vaccines train the body’s immune system to recognize and combat specific pathogens. They introduce weakened or inactive forms of the pathogen or its components (antigens) without causing the disease itself. This triggers a safe immune response, creating memory cells that can quickly fight future encounters with the actual pathogen. 

How Vaccines Work: 

1. Exposure: The vaccine is administered, introducing the antigen. 

2. Immune Activation: The immune system identifies the antigen as foreign and activates B and T lymphocytes. 

3. Antibody Production: B cells produce antibodies specific to the antigen. 

4. Memory Creation: Some memory B and T cells remain, primed to rapidly produce antibodies upon future exposure to the same antigen. 

Indian Approaches to COVID-19 Vaccines: 

Indian manufacturers like Serum Institute of India (SII) employed two main approaches: 

• Inactivated Virus Vaccine: (Covaxin) This traditional method uses a killed whole virus, rendering it non-infectious but still recognizable by the immune system. 
• Viral Vector Vaccine: (Covishield) A weakened virus (vector) carries a genetic code for a specific antigen from the target pathogen (SARS-CoV-2 spike protein). Once inside host cells, the vector delivers the genetic code, instructing cells to produce the antigen, stimulating an immune response. 

These approaches have proven effective in protecting against COVID-19, highlighting India’s robust vaccine production capabilities.

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