A healthcare provider tells an individual, 'Your fair skin predisposes you to skin carcinomas.' What does the word 'predispose' mean in this sentence?

Rationale

Makes susceptible to

In this context, "predispose" indicates a tendency or increased likelihood of experiencing a particular condition. The healthcare provider is suggesting that having fair skin increases the individual's vulnerability to developing skin carcinomas.

A (Becomes impervious to) YOUR ANSWER

The term "impervious" means unable to be affected by something. If fair skin made an individual impervious to skin carcinomas, it would mean they are not susceptible to it, which contradicts the meaning of "predispose" in this context.

B (Makes susceptible to) CORRECT

"Predispose" in this sentence means that fair skin increases the likelihood or susceptibility of developing skin carcinomas. This aligns with the intended meaning, as fair skin is known to be less protected against UV radiation, leading to a higher risk of skin cancer.

C (Provides protection from) YOUR ANSWER

If fair skin provided protection from skin carcinomas, it would reduce the risk of developing them. However, "predispose" implies an increased risk, not a protective effect, making this interpretation incorrect in the given context.

D (Creates protection for) YOUR ANSWER

To "create protection for" suggests that fair skin would somehow shield the individual from skin carcinomas. This contradicts the meaning of "predispose," which indicates a heightened risk rather than protective benefits.

Conclusion

The term "predispose" specifically refers to an increased likelihood or susceptibility to a condition or disease. In this scenario, fair skin is noted for its reduced natural protection against harmful UV rays, leading to a higher susceptibility to skin carcinomas. Therefore, option B correctly captures the essence of the healthcare provider's warning, while the other options suggest meanings that are contrary to the intended implication of increased risk.

A healthcare provider tells an individual, 'Your fair skin predisposes you to skin carcinomas.' What does the word 'predispose' mean in this sentence?

Makes susceptible to

Related Questions

Related Quizzes

How familiar were you with this question?

Report an Issue

Rate this Practice Test