Health Glossary

Demystifying medical language. Browse or search for clear, human-centered explanations of common medical terms.

Protozoa

Protozoa are diverse microscopic, single-celled organisms, some of which can live as parasites and cause disease in humans. Protozoa are…
View Definition →

Public Health

Public health is the field concerned with protecting and improving the health of populations through prevention, health promotion, policy, surveillance,…
View Definition →

Pustule

A pustule is a small, raised skin lesion containing visible purulent material. In acne, pustules develop when inflammation within or…
View Definition →

Rash

A rash is a visible change in the skin, such as changes in color, texture, or appearance, that may result…
View Definition →

Receptor

A receptor is a specialized molecule or sensory structure that detects a specific signal, stimulus, or change and initiates or…
View Definition →

Risk

The likelihood and potential severity of harm resulting from exposure to a hazard under particular circumstances. Risk depends on more…
View Definition →

Risk Factor

A characteristic, exposure, behavior, condition, or circumstance associated with an increased likelihood of developing a disease or experiencing a health…
View Definition →

RNA

Ribonucleic acid (RNA) is a biological molecule that stores, carries, or helps use genetic information in cells and in some…
View Definition →

Roundworm

A roundworm is a parasitic worm with a generally cylindrical, elongated body, belonging to the group known as nematodes. Some…
View Definition →