Noninfectious

Noninfectious refers to diseases, conditions, or processes not caused by pathogenic microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites. In medical usage, noninfectious conditions are typically not transmissible through ordinary infectious routes from one person to another.

Major categories include cardiovascular diseases (for example, coronary artery disease), cancers, chronic respiratory diseases, diabetes mellitus, autoimmune and inflammatory disorders, genetic and congenital disorders, metabolic and endocrine disorders, and many mental health conditions. These conditions may share risk factors such as genetics, age, environmental exposures, lifestyle factors (such as tobacco use, diet, and physical inactivity), and immune or metabolic dysfunction.

Around the world, noninfectious diseases are a major public health concern, collectively referred to as noncommunicable diseases in many health systems. They are often chronic, with long duration and complex management, though some can present acutely.

Although most noninfectious diseases are not communicable, in some cases infectious agents can influence their development or progression (for example infections increasing cancer risk or triggering autoimmune reactions).

Understanding noninfectious diseases involves studying pathophysiology, genetics, epidemiology, and social determinants of health to inform prevention, diagnosis, and treatment.