Health & Wellness Grade 8

Glossary


abdominal thrusts  A series of inward thrusts to the abdomen to force air out of the lungs and dislodge an object.
abstinence  Choosing not to engage in any risk behaviors.
abstinence from sex  Choosing not to be sexually active.
abuse (uh•BYOOS)  The harmful physical, emotional, or sexual treatment of another person.
accident  An unplanned, unexpected, unforeseen event.
acne  A skin condition in which glands and hair follicles become inflamed, resulting in pimples, whiteheads, and blackheads over the face, neck, shoulders, upper arms, and torso.
acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS)  A condition that results when infection with HIV causes a breakdown of the body's ability to fight other infections.
active listening  A type of listening in which a person lets others know that he or she heard and understood what was said.
addictive behavior  A behavior that is repeated, is difficult to stop, and has harmful effects.
adipose (A•duh•pohs) tissue  The fat that accumulates around internal organs, within muscle, and under the skin.
adolescence  The physical, emotional, and social transition from childhood to adulthood.
advertisement (ad)  An announcement designed to persuade people to buy a product or service.
aerobic (uh•ROH•bik) exercise  Vigorous activity in which oxygen is taken in for a period of at least 20 minutes.
affection  Warm feelings toward another person.
air bag  A cushion in a motor vehicle that automatically inflates instantly after a collision occurs.
air pollution  The contamination of air with undesirable gases, particles, dust, smoke, and chemicals.
Air Quality Index (AQI)  A measure of air quality based on the total of the levels of five different pollutants.
alcohol  A drug that slows down the central nervous system and harms body organs.
alcoholism  A disease marked by physical and psychological dependence on alcohol.
all-terrain vehicle (ATV)  A motorized vehicle that can travel easily over rough surfaces.
allergen  Any substance that causes an allergic reaction.
allergies  Abnormal reactions of the body to ordinarily harmless substances.
allied health professional  A trained practitioner who practices under some degree of supervision.
Amount Per Serving  The section of a food label that lists the number of calories in one serving, as well as the number of calories from fat in one serving.
amphetamines (am•FE•tuh•meenz)  Chemically manufactured stimulant drugs that are highly addictive.
anabolic steroid (a•nuh•BAH•lik STIR•oyd)  A drug used to artificially increase muscle size and strength.
anaerobic (an•uh•ROH•bik) exercise  An exercise in which the body's demand for oxygen is greater than the supply.
anger management skills  Strategies for dealing with anger in constructive ways.
anorexia nervosa  An eating disorder characterized by self-starvation and a weight of 15 percent or more below normal.
antibiotic (an•ti•by•AH•tik)  A substance that kills or slows the growth of bacteria.
antibodies  Proteins that helps fight infection.
anxiety  A feeling of dread, similar to fear.
anxiety disorder  Intense or long-lasting worries or fears that interfere with people's daily lives.
appetite  A desire for food because of your environment and your thoughts.
arteriosclerosis  A general term used to describe several conditions that cause hardening and thickening of the arteries.
artery (AR•tuh•ree)  A blood vessel that carries blood away from the heart.
arthritis  The painful inflammation of the body's joints.
assertive behavior  The honest expression of thoughts, feelings, and emotions without experiencing anxiety or threatening others.
asthma (AZ•muh)  A condition that causes the bronchial tubes to become blocked or narrowed, making breathing difficult.
astigmatism (uh•STIG•muh•ti•zuhm)  A problem in which an irregular curve to the eye's lens or cornea causes blurred vision.
atherosclerosis (ah•thu•roh•sklah•ROH•sis)  A condition that results from fatty buildup in blood vessels.
audiologist (aw•dee•AH•luh•jist)  A health professional who tests people for hearing problems and makes recommendations for hearing devices.
bacteria (bak•TIR•eeouh)  Single-celled microorganisms that live nearly everywhere; bacterium (sing.)
balanced budget  A plan in which your income is equal to or greater than your expenses.
barbiturates (bar•BI•chuh•ruhts)  A type of sedative that has been prescribed by physicians to help people sleep.
being drug free  Not misusing over-the-counter and controlled drugs and not using any illegal drugs
binge eating disorder  An eating disorder in which the affected person engages in uncontrollable overeating.
biodegradable  Able to be broken down by organisms to become part of Earth's natural resources.
biological age  A measure of age based on how well a person's body parts are functioning.
biopsy  The removal of a tissue sample to check for the presence of cancer cells.
birth defect  An abnormality present at birth that can cause physical or mental disability, or death.
blackout  A period during which a person cannot remember what has happened.
blister  A raised area of the skin containing liquid that is caused by an object rubbing against the skin.
blood alcohol concentration (BAC)  The amount of alcohol present in a person's blood.
blood pressure (BP)  The force of blood pulsing against the artery walls.
body composition  The ratio of fat to lean tissue in the body.
body image  The perception a person has of his or her body.
body language  Using facial expressions, hand and foot movements, touching, posture, and the presence or absence of eye contact to communicate.
body system  A group of organs that work together to perform an important function.
budget  A plan for saving and spending money.
bulimia nervosa  An eating disorder in which the affected person has uncontrollable urges to eat a great deal of food in a short period and then rid the body of the food consumed.
bullying  An attempt by a person to hurt or frighten others who may seem helpless.
bypass surgery  Surgery that fashions a detour around a narrowed or damaged artery or vein to allow blood to reach the heart.
calculus  Hardened dental plaque that can be removed by a dentist.
callus  A thickened area of the skin caused by excess rubbing.
calorie  A unit of measure for both the energy supplied by food and the energy used by the body.
cancer  A disease in which cells divide in an uncontrolled, dangerous manner.
carbohydrates  Nutrients that provide energy for your body.
carbon monoxide (CO) (KAR•buhn muh•NAHK•syd)  An odorless, tasteless, colorless, poisonous gas that is produced when fuel is burned.
carbon monoxide detector  A device that sounds an alarm when dangerous levels of carbon monoxide are present in the air.
carcinogen (kar•SIN•uh•juhn)  A substance that is known to cause cancer.
cardiac arrest  A condition in which the heart suddenly stops beating.
cardiac muscle  Muscle found only in the walls of the heart.
cardiac output  The amount of blood pumped by the heart each minute.
cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR)  A first aid procedure used to restore heartbeat and breathing.
cardiorespiratory endurance  The ability to do activities requiring increased oxygen intake for extended periods.
cardiovascular (KAR•dee•oh•VAS•kyoo•ler) diseases  Diseases of the heart and blood system.
cartilage (KAR•tuhl•ij)  A strong, flexible tissue at the ends of some bones, providing a cushion where your bones come together.
CD-ROM  A computer disc that stores computer programs, text, graphics, music, and animation in files.
central nervous system (CNS)  The part of the nervous system that consists of the brain and spinal cord.
chancre (SHAN•ker)  A round, hard, but painless sore.
character  A person's use of self-control to act on responsible values.
chemical burn  A burn caused by chemicals on the skin, in the eyes, or ingested into the body.
child safety restraint  A seat that a small child sits in, which is securely fastened in the back seat of a motor vehicle.
choking  An emergency in which a person's airway is blocked.
cholesterol (kuh•LES•tuh•rawl)  A soft, waxy, fatlike material produced by the body and found in such foods as meat, eggs, and dairy products.
chronic bronchitis (bron•KYT•us)  A persistent inflammation of the lining of the airways in the lungs, with excess production of mucus.
chronic diseases  Diseases that are not transmitted by pathogens and are present either continuously or for a long time.
chronological age  The number of years a person has lived.
cilia (SIH•lee•uh)  Tiny, hairlike projections in the respiratory system that trap and remove dust and other harmful particles, keeping them out of the lungs.
circulatory system  The body system consisting of the heart, blood, and blood vessels, called arteries, veins, and capillaries.
cocaine (koh•KAYN)  A highly addictive stimulant drug obtained from the leaves of the coca plant.
color blindness  A condition in which a person is not able to distinguish certain colors.
commercial  An advertising message on the radio or on television.
commitment  An agreement or promise to do something.
communicable (kuh•MYOO•ni•kuh•buhl) disease  A disease caused by a pathogen that can be passed to a person from another person, animal, or object.
comparison shopping  Evaluating similarities and differences among related products and services.
competition  The act of trying to win or gain something from one person or several other people.
composting  Breaking down plant remains and other once-living materials into simpler substances.
conception  The union of an egg and a sperm; also called fertilization.
conflict  A disagreement between two or more people or between two or more choices.
conflict resolution skills  Steps you can use to resolve a disagreement in a way that is healthful, safe, and legal; follows family guidelines; is respectful of self and others; demonstrates good character; and is nonviolent.
conjunctivitis  An inflammation of the membranes covering the white of the eye and eyelid; also called pinkeye.
conservation  The saving of resources.
consumer  Anyone who buys products or services.
controlled drug  A drug whose possession, manufacture, distribution, and sale are controlled by law.
cool-down  At least three to five minutes of reduced activity to slow the heart rate and decrease body temperature.
corn  A growth on the skin of the foot due to excess rubbing of a shoe against the foot or from toes being squeezed together in a shoe.
crack  A purified form of cocaine that produces a rapid and intense reaction.
culture  The set of beliefs and values of a group of people.
dandruff  Flakes of dead skin on the scalp.
date rape drugs  Depressants associated with their use in sexual assaults.
debt (DET)  Owing money to someone.
decibel (dB)  A unit used to measure the loudness of sounds.
deductible  A specific amount of money the insured must pay to health care providers before the insurance company will cover the rest of his or her costs.
degenerative diseases  Chronic diseases that cause continued breakdown of body cells, tissues, and organs.
dehydration  A condition in which the body does not have enough fluid to function well.
dental plaque  An invisible, sticky film of bacteria that forms on the teeth, especially near the gum line.
depressants  Drugs that slow down the activity of the central nervous system.
depression  The feeling of being sad, unhappy, or discouraged.
dermatologist  A physician who specializes in caring for the skin.
desensitization  Reacting less and less to something you are exposed to.
detoxification  The physical process of ridding the body of an addictive substance.
developmental tasks  Achievements that must be learned as a person matures.
diabetes  A disease in which the pancreas produces little or no insulin or the body cannot use insulin as it should.
diagnosis  The process of determining what type of illness is present by examining someone, studying his or her symptoms, and running tests.
Dietary Guidelines for Americans  A set of food and lifestyle recommendations for healthy Americans ages two and older.
digestive (dy•JES•tiv) system  The body system that breaks down food into nutrients that the body can use.
discriminate (dis•KRIM•uh•nayt)  To treat people or groups of people unfairly because they are different.
disease  An illness.
dislocation  An injury in which a bone pops out of its joint.
distress  Negative stress, which prompts a harmful response to a stressor.
divorce  The legal end to a marriage.
domestic violence  Violence that occurs between members of a family.
drug  A substance other than food that changes the way the body or mind works.
drug-free lifestyle  A way of life in which people do not misuse or abuse drugs.
dynamic blood pressure  The measure of changes in a person's blood pressure during the day.
dysfunctional family  A family in which members behave in ways that are not responsible or loving.
e-mail  A system that delivers electronic messages from one computer to another.
earthquake  A sudden shaking of the earth that occurs when plates of rock shift beneath the earth's surface, along a fault.
eating disorder  A food-related illness in which a person changes eating habits in a way that is harmful to the mind and body.
ecology  The study of the relationship between living organisms--including humans, animals, plants, and other forms of life--and the environment.
ecosystem  A system made up of all the living things in an area and the nonliving parts of their environment.
electrical burn  A burn caused by electricity flowing through the body.
electrocardiogram (EKG)  A measure of electrical activity of the heart.
embryo  The name for a developing baby during the first eight weeks after conception.
emergency  Any situation in which serious injury or illness threatens a person's life or may cause permanent damage.
emotional abuse  Making a person feel worthless or unimportant by putting him or her down.
emotions  Feelings, such as happiness, sadness, fear, and anger.
empathy  The ability to share in what another person is feeling.
emphysema (em•fuh•ZEE•muh)  A disease in which the air sacs in the lungs become damaged, causing breathing difficulties.
enabler  A person who knowingly or unknowingly supports the harmful behavior of another person.
endocrine (EN•duh•krin) system  The body system that consists of glands and regulates your hormones.
energy  The ability to do work.
energy conservation  Actions taken to save heat and electricity.
environment  Everything living and nonliving that surrounds a person.
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)  A regulatory agency responsible for reducing and controlling environmental pollution.
essential body fat  Fat located around the heart, lungs, liver, spleen, kidneys, and intestines that protects these organs from injury and aids in the performance of body functions.
eustress (YOO•stres)  Positive stress, which prompts a healthful response to a stressor.
expenses  The amounts of money you spend to buy and do things.
fad  Something that is popular for a short period of time.
family  A group of related people, including parents, stepparents, guardians, children, and sometimes other relatives.
fertilization  The union of an egg and a sperm, also called conception.
fertilizer  A chemical added to soil to enrich it for growing better crops.
fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS)  A condition marked by severe birth defects in babies born to women who drink alcohol during pregnancy.
fetus  The name for a developing baby from the end of the eighth week after conception until birth.
fever  A body temperature that is above the normal level of 98.6°F.
fiber  The part of grains and plant foods that your body cannot digest.
firearm  A gun that ejects bullets when its gunpowder explodes.
first aid  The immediate care you give to a person who is injured or sick.
first-degree burn  A burn that affects the outer layer of skin.
flashback  A sudden illusion that a person has long after having used hallucinogenic drugs.
flexibility  The ability to bend and move the body through a full range of motions.
flood  The spilling over of a river, ocean, or stream onto normally dry land.
Food Guide Pyramid  A chart that groups foods according to the nutrients they contain and provides daily guidelines for the number of servings from each food group.
foodborne illness  An illness caused by eating food that has been contaminated by pathogens or by toxins they produce.
formal intervention  An action by people, such as family members, who want a person to get treatment for an addiction.
fracture  A break in a bone.
frequency  The number of times a person participates in physical activity each week.
frostbite  The freezing of body tissues.
fungi (FUHN•jy)  Single-celled or multicelled organisms that feed on organic material.
gang  A group of people who participate in violent or criminal acts.
gender role  The way a person acts and the feelings and attitudes he or she has about being male or female.
gingivitis (jihn•juh•VY•tis)  The early stage of gum disease, in which the gums in the mouth are red, swollen, and tender and bleed easily.
gland  A group of cells or an organ that secretes hormones.
global warming  An ongoing increasing of Earth's temperature.
Good Samaritan Laws  Laws that protect people if they have acted responsibly and used good judgment in giving first aid.
greenhouse effect  The trapping of heat by carbon dioxide and other gases in the air.
grief  Discomfort and sadness caused by loss, such as the death of another person.
grooming  Taking care of your body so you look and feel your best.
hallucinogens (huh•LOO•suhn•uh•juhnz)  Drugs that interfere with the senses and cause people to see and hear things that are not real.
health  The quality of life that includes physical, mental and emotional, and family and social health.
health behavior contract  A written plan to achieve a health goal.
health care facility  A place where people receive medical care.
health care practitioner  A person who is not necessarily a licensed physician, but who deals with a specific area of the body.
health care provider  A professional who helps people maintain their health.
health care system  A network that includes health care providers, facilities, and a payment plan for health care.
health goals  Healthful objectives or aims that you take steps to achieve through healthful actions practiced over the course of your life.
health insurance (in•SHER•ens)  A plan that helps pay for the cost of health care services.
health literacy  The desired outcome of the study of health.
health maintenance (MAYN•te•nuhns) organization (HMO)  A business that provides health care services to its members at a reduced rate.
healthful behaviors  Actions that promote health; prevent illness, injury, and premature death; and improve the quality of the environment.
healthful body composition  A high ratio of lean body tissue to fat body tissue.
healthful friendship  A stable relationship that supports mutual respect and healthful behavior.
healthful weight  The weight that is recommended for your age, height, gender, and body frame.
heart attack  A condition that results when the blood supply to the heart muscle is blocked off or interrupted, leading to damage to the heart muscle.
heat cramps  Muscle spasms in the arms, legs, or abdomen that occur when the body loses too much fluid through sweating.
heat exhaustion  Extreme fatigue due to the body's inability to regulate its temperature.
heatstroke  A serious, extreme heat emergency that occurs when the brain loses its ability to regulate body temperature.
heredity  The sum total of the traits that have been transmitted to you from your biological parents.
homicide (HAHM•uh•syd)  The intentional or unintentional killing of another person.
hormones  Chemical messengers that are released into the bloodstream to control your body's activities.
human immunodeficiency (im•yoo•noh•di•FI•shuhn•see) virus (HIV)  The virus that causes AIDS.
hunger  The body's physical need for food.
hurricane  A tropical rainstorm with winds of at least 74 miles per hour.
hyperopia (hy•puh•ROH•pee•uh)  A problem in which objects that are close up appear blurred while distant objects appear clear; also called farsightedness.
hypertension  High blood pressure.
hypoglycemia (hy•poh•gly•SEE•mee•uh)  A condition in which the pancreas produces too much insulin and the body's blood sugar level is abnormally low.
hypothermia (hy•poh•THUHR•mee•uh)  A condition that occurs when body temperature drops below normal levels.
identity  A sense of who you are.
immunity (i•MYOO•nuh•tee)  Resistance to disease.
incest  Sexual abuse between family members, including parents or guardians.
income  All the money you receive from different sources, including working.
individual sports  Physical activities that you can do on your own or with a friend.
infancy  The time from birth to 1 year old during which the most rapid period of growth occurs.
infection  A condition that occurs when there are more pathogens than the white blood cells can fight.
ingrown toenail  A toenail that grows into the skin.
inhalants (in•HAY•luhnts)  Chemicals or fumes from common household products that are sniffed or inhaled for their mind-altering effects.
insulin  A hormone that regulates the body's blood sugar level.
integumentary (in•TEH•gyuh•ment•tuh•ree) system  The body system that is made up of parts that cover and protect the body, such as skin, hair, and nails.
interest  Money that is paid for the use of borrowed or deposited money.
internet  A collection of networks, also known as the Net, that connects millions of people worldwide.
interpersonal communication  The exchange of thoughts, feelings, and beliefs between two or more people.
intoxicated  Being physically and mentally impaired as a result of alcohol consumption.
involuntary muscle  A muscle that you do not control.
juvenile offender  A legal minor who commits a crime.
kidney  An organ that filters water and dissolved wastes from the blood and helps maintain proper levels of water and salt in the body.
land conservation  Actions taken to save land.
landfill  A place where wastes are dumped and buried.
learning disability  A condition in which a person has difficulty learning.
life skills  Abilities that help you maintain and improve your health.
lifetime sports and physical activities  Sports and physical activities in which a person can participate now and as he or she gets older.
ligaments  Strong cords of tissue that connect the bones in your joints.
lipoproteins  Substances that carry cholesterol through the bloodstream.
liver  A large gland that produces bile, a substance to aid in the digestion of fats.
long-term goals  Achievements that are reached with sustained effort for an extended period of time.
Lyme disease  A bacterial disease that can produce a red rash at the site of a tick bite, swollen joints, and flu-like symptoms.
mainstream smoke  The smoke that is inhaled and exhaled by a person who smokes.
malnutrition  A condition in which the body does not get the nutrients it needs.
malocclusion (ma•luh•KLEW•zhun)  The abnormal fitting together of the teeth when the jaws are closed.
mammogram  An X ray of the breasts that is used to screen for breast cancer.
managed care  An organized system of health care services with the primary purpose of controlling costs. There are various types of managed care.
marijuana  An illegal drug containing THC, a chemical that affects short-term memory and causes mood changes.
maximum heart rate  A heart rate of 220 beats per minute minus your age.
media  Various forms of mass communication, such as television, printed materials, and the Internet.
media literacy  The ability to recognize and evaluate messages sent through various forms of mass communication.
mediation  A process in which an uninvolved third party helps people in a conflict reach a solution.
mediator  An outside person who helps people in a conflict reach a solution.
medicine  A drug that is used to treat, prevent, and/or relieve illness symptoms.
melanoma (mel•uh•NO•ma)  An often fatal form of skin cancer.
menstrual cycle  The monthly series of changes that take place in the female reproductive system.
menstruation  The part of the menstrual cycle, also known as a woman's period, during which an unfertilized egg and the inner lining of the uterus are shed from the body.
mentor  A responsible person who serves as a role model to and guides and helps a younger person.
metabolism  The rate at which the body converts food to energy.
metastasis (me•TAHS•tah•sis)  The spreading of cancerous cells from their origin to other parts of the body.
methamphetamines  Highly addictive drugs in the amphetamine family.
minerals  Nutrients that help your body grow and develop by controlling chemical reactions in the body.
motor vehicle emissions  The chemicals that are released into the air as a result of the burning of motor vehicle fuels.
mucous membranes  The tissues that line your nose, mouth, and throat and produce a fluid called mucus that traps pathogens.
muscular endurance  The ability to use muscles over an extended period.
muscular strength  The ability to lift, pull, push, kick, and throw objects with force.
muscular system  The body system made up of muscles that help you move and maintain your posture.
myopia (my•OH•pee•uh)  A problem in which objects in the distance appear blurred while close objects appear clear; also called nearsightedness.
narcotics  A group of drugs that slow down the central nervous system, cause drowsiness, and can be used as painkillers.
neglect  Failure to provide adequate, necessary care and guidance.
nervous system  The body system that carries messages to and from the brain, spinal cord, and all other parts of the body.
neuron  A single nerve cell.
nicotine  A colorless, odorless, highly addictive drug found in tobacco that stimulates the central nervous system.
nonrenewable resources  Resources that cannot be replaced once they are used.
nonverbal communication  The use of actions rather than words to express thoughts and feelings.
nurturing environment  Surroundings that help a person grow, develop, and succeed.
nutrient density  A measure of the ratio of nutrients to calories.
nutrients (NOO•tree•ents)  Chemical substances that your body needs to build, repair, and maintain body tissues.
obesity  Excessive body fat, which for a male is more than 25 percent of total body weight and for a female is more than 30 percent of total body weight.
obstetrician (ahb•stuh•TRI•shun)  A physician who specializes in the care of pregnant women.
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)  The regulatory agency responsible for maintaining a safe and healthful work environment.
online  Connected to a remote computer system, such as the Internet.
ophthalmologist (ahf•thuhl•MAHL•uh•jist)  A physician who specializes in medical and surgical treatment of eye problems and diseases.
opportunistic infection  An illness that ordinarily would not occur but does occur in a person with a weakened immune system.
optometrist (ahp•TAHM•uh•trist)  A trained vision specialist, licensed to examine the eyes and prescribe corrective lenses.
orthodontist  A dentist who treats malocclusion.
osteoarthritis  A condition in which the movable parts of a joint break down.
osteoporosis (ah•stee•oh•puh•ROH•sis)  A bone disease that causes bones to become thin, fragile, and easily injured.
ova (ovum) (OH•vuhm)  Female reproductive cells.
over-the-counter (OTC) drug  A drug that people can buy without a physician's prescription.
overload  An added activity that increases the body's ability to do work.
ovulation (ahv•yuh•LAY•shun)  The release of a mature egg from an ovary.
oxidation (AHK•suh•DAY•shuhn)  The process by which alcohol is changed to carbon dioxide and water.
ozone layer  A shield far above Earth's surface that protects all living things from ultraviolet (UV) radiation.
pacemaker  A small mechanical device that sends steady electrical impulses to the heart to help it beat regularly.
pancreas (PAN•kree•uhs)  A gland that produces enzymes and chemicals that control blood sugar levels.
particulates  Tiny particles in the air, such as dirt, soot, ashes, and pollen.
pathogen  A disease-causing agent.
pedestrian  A person who is walking.
peer pressure  The influence that people of similar age or status place on others to encourage them to make certain decisions or behave in certain ways.
peers  People of similar age and status, which for teens means their classmates.
Percent Daily Value  The portion of the daily value of a nutrient provided by one serving of a food or beverage.
periodontal disease  Advanced gum disease, which affects the gums, jawbone, and connective tissues in the mouth that support the teeth.
peripheral (puh•RIF•uh•rul) nervous system (PNS)  The part of the nervous system that consists of all the nerves that branch out from the CNS to muscles, skin, internal organs, and glands.
personality  A person's unique blend of physical, mental, social, and emotional characteristics.
pesticide  A chemical or other substance used to destroy harmful plants, animals, or fungi.
phagocytes (FA•juh•syts)  White blood cells that ingest and kill pathogens.
pharmacist  A licensed professional who fills the prescriptions that physicians write.
physical abuse  Harmful treatment of a person that results in physical injury.
physical dependence  A condition in which someone develops a tolerance toward a drug or shows withdrawal symptoms without it.
physical fitness  The healthful condition of the body that is the result of regular physical activity.
physical profiling  The process of testing a person's physical limits to figure out which types of physical activities are best.
plaque (PLAK)  Hardened, fatty deposits that are the result of cholesterol buildup.
plasma  The liquid part of your blood.
platelets (PLAYT•lets)  The small parts of the blood that help blood to clot.
poison  A harmful substance that causes injury, illness, or death if it enters the body.
pollutant  Anything that causes pollution.
pollution  Any change in the air, water, soil, noise level, or temperature that has a negative effect on life and health.
precycling  Reducing waste before it occurs.
preferred provider  A health care provider who appears on an approved list of people whose services are covered by an insurance company.
preferred provider organization (PPO)  A group that does not require that members obtain their health care only from preferred providers.
pregnancy  The time from conception until birth.
premature delivery  The birth of a baby before it is due.
premium  Money that is paid by the insured to an insurance company to ensure that the insurance company will pay its portion of the cost of health care services.
prenatal care  The care given to a pregnant female and her unborn baby.
prescription (pri•SKRIP•shuhn) drug  A medication that can only be obtained with a written order from a physician.
preventive care  Health care that helps to keep people from becoming ill.
PRICE treatment  A method for treating injuries of the musculoskeletal system including protection, rest, ice, compression, and elevation.
primary care provider  A physician or other health care professional who provides general care.
probation  A period of time during which someone who has committed a crime remains in his or her community under supervision.
problem drinkingó A drinking pattern that produces problems in a person's life.
products  Items available for purchase, such as food, medicine, and clothing.
progression  The gradual increase in intensity and time spent on physical activity.
protective factors  Ways that a person might behave and characteristics of a person's environment that promote health, safety, and well-being.
proteins  Nutrients that help your body build, repair, and maintain its tissues.
protozoa (proh•tuh•ZOH•uh)  Single-celled organisms, more complex than bacteria, some of which can cause certain diseases.
psychological (sy koh•LAH•ji•kuhl) dependence  A strong emotional desire to continue using a drug.
puberty  The stage of growth and development when secondary sex characteristics appear in males and females.
quackeryó Consumer fraud that involves promoting and selling useless products or services.
radwaste  Radioactive waste.
rain forest  A group of trees and plants covering a large, warm, wet area.
rape  The threatened or actual use of force to get a person to engage in sexual activity without consent, or sexual contact with a minor.
recycling  The process of breaking down or re-forming waste products so they can be used again.
red blood cells  Blood cells that carry oxygen.
rehabilitation  The process of helping people change negative behavior into positive behavior.
relapse  The return to an addictive behavior after a period of having stopped it.
relationship  The interaction a person has with another person.
renewable resources  Resources that can be replaced once they are used.
reproductive system  The body system that is made up of the organs involved in reproduction.
rescue breathing  A method for breathing air into an unconscious person who is not breathing; also called artificial respiration.
resiliency  Being able to bounce back from misfortune, change, or pressure--including criticism.
resistance skills  Communication skills that help you say "no" effectively. They are also called refusal skills.
respiratory system  The body system that provides your body's cells with oxygen and removes carbon dioxide waste.
Responsible Decision-Making ModelTM, The  A series of steps to follow to ensure that decisions lead to actions that promote health, protect safety, follow laws, show respect for self and others, follow guidelines set by responsible adults such as parents or a guardian, and demonstrate good character.
rickettsia (ri•KET•see•uh)  Pathogens that are similar to bacteria but multiply like viruses.
risk behaviors  Actions that threaten health; increase the likelihood of illness, injury, and premature death; and harm the quality of the environment.
risk factors  Characteristics that increase a person's chance of developing diseases or engaging in risk behaviors.
role model  Someone who provides a positive example for others to follow.
safe and drug-free school zone  A defined area around a school that protects young people from weapons violence and drugs.
saturated fats  The type of fats found in many animal foods, such as meat and dairy products, that can raise your blood cholesterol level.
savings  Money set aside to be used in the future.
seat belt  A lap belt and shoulder strap combined.
second-degree burn  A burn that affects the top two layers of skin.
secondhand smoke  Exhaled smoke and sidestream smoke, also known as environmental tobacco smoke.
self-esteem  Confidence in yourself that helps you succeed and take care of your health.
self-respect  A high regard for oneself as a result of behaving in responsible ways.
separation  An agreement between a couple to live apart, but remain married.
services  The work that people do for others or sources of information, such as Web sites.
serving size  The amount of food considered to be a portion.
sewage  Waste liquids or solids that are carried off by sewers.
sexual abuse  Sexual behavior that is forced on a person or occurs before the legal age of consent.
sexual harassment  Unwanted sexual advances that range from making unwanted sexual comments to forcing another person into unwanted sexual activity.
sexually transmitted disease (STD)  A disease or infection caused by pathogens that are transmitted from an infected person to an uninfected person during sexual activity; also called a sexually transmitted infection (STI).
shadowing  Spending time with someone in a particular field, observing how he or she works.
shock  A dangerous reduction in blood flow to body tissues.
short-term goals  Achievements that are reached in the near future with effort.
sick building syndrome  An illness that is caused by indoor air pollution.
side effect  An unwanted change in the body that is not related to the main purpose of a drug.
sidestream smoke  The smoke that enters the air from the burning end of a cigarette, cigar, or pipe.
skeletal system  Framework of bones that supports you, allows you to move, protects vital organs, and produces blood cells.
smog  Smoke and fog combined.
smooth muscle  Muscle found in body organs, blood vessels, and glands.
social age  An indicator of a person's age based on involvement with others.
social skills  Skills that help you get along with other people in different social situations.
social-emotional environment  The quality of the contacts one has with other people.
solid waste  Discarded solid materials, such as paper, metal, and yard waste.
specialist  A physician who has specific training in a particular area of health care.
specificity  Choosing a particular physical activity for its desired benefits.
sperm  Male reproductive cells.
spirochete (SPY•roh•keet)  A spiral-shaped bacterium.
splint  A device used to immobilize a part of the body.
sports conditioning  Preparing your body for a particular sport through exercise and good nutrition.
sports participant  A person who plays sports.
sports spectator  A person who watches and has an interest in sports without playing them.
sprain  An injury to the ligaments, tendons, and soft tissue around a joint caused by excessive twisting or stretching.
sterile  Unable to produce children.
strain  An injury that occurs when muscles or tendons have been overstretched.
stress  The response of the body to the demands of daily living.
stress management skills  Techniques to cope with the body changes produced by stress.
stressor  A source or cause of stress.
stroke  A condition caused by a blocked or broken blood vessel in the brain.
stroke volume  The amount of blood the heart pumps with each beat.
substance abuse  The misuse of a legal drug or the use of any illegal drug.
suffocation (su•fuh•KAY•shuhn)  A condition in which a person is deprived of oxygen because of an obstruction preventing air from entering the lungs.
suicide  The intentional taking of one's own life.
support network  A group of people who help and encourage you.
symptom  A signal of change in body function or behavior from the usual, such as severe pain in any body part.
synapse  The point at which an impulse passes from one neuron to another along the message pathway.
tar  A thick, sticky fluid that is produced when tobacco is burned.
target heart rate  Seventy-five percent of maximum heart rate.
team sports  Physical activities in which teams compete against each other.
tendon  Tough band of tissue that attaches muscles to bones.
terminal illness  An illness that is incurable and will result in death.
thermal inversion  A condition that occurs when a layer of warm air forms above a cooler layer of air, trapping pollution in the cooler layer.
thermal pollution  The pollution of water by excessive heat.
third-degree burn  A burn that affects all layers of the skin and some deeper tissues.
thunderstorm  A storm in which thunder and bolts of lightning occur.
time management plan  A plan that shows how you will divide your time between things you need to do and things you want to do.
tobacco cessation program  A formal plan to help people stop smoking cigarettes and cigars, or using smokeless tobacco.
tolerance  What happens when the body becomes used to a drug and needs larger and larger amounts to produce the same effect.
tornado  A long, rotating column of air that reaches from a thunderstorm cloud to the ground.
toxic waste  Poisonous waste.
training principles  Guidelines to follow to gain maximum benefits from physical activity while preventing injuries.
tranquilizers  Sedatives that relax muscles and reduce anxiety.
transfusion  The transfer of blood from one person into a blood vessel of another.
tumor (TOO•mer)  A growth of cells that forms a lump.
unintentional injury  An injury caused by an unexpected event.
universal precautions  Guidelines that help protect people from diseases that are spread by blood and body fluids.
unsaturated fats  The type of fat often found in plant products and fish, which does not present the same health risks as saturated fat.
urinary system  The body system that removes liquid wastes.
uterus (YOO•tuhr•us)  The organ that holds the fertilized egg throughout development until birth.
vaccine  A mixture of dead or weakened pathogens that is injected into the body to cause the immune system to produce antibodies.
values  Principles or standards that guide the way a person behaves.
vein (VAYN)  A blood vessel that returns blood to the heart.
victim assessment  A check of an injured or ill person for breathing, heartbeat, bleeding, and other injuries.
violence  The use of physical force to injure, damage, or destroy oneself, others, or property.
virus (VY•rus)  The smallest disease-causing pathogen.
visual environment  Everything a person sees regularly.
visual pollution  Unattractive sights.
vitamins  Nutrients that help chemical reactions take place in the body.
voluntary muscle  A muscle that you can control.
volunteer  Someone who provides a service without being paid.
warm-up  Three to five minutes of low-impact, light activity to prepare the muscles for more work.
warranty  A written pledge that a product will be replaced or repaired if it is not satisfactory.
water conservation  Actions taken to save water.
water pollution  The contamination of water with sewage, waste, gases, or harmful chemicals.
water runoff  Contaminated water that runs off the land into a body of water.
weapon  An object used to commit violent acts that could injure or kill.
West Nile virus  A virus transmitted by mosquitoes that causes illness with symptoms ranging from mild flu-like conditions to severe brain swelling.
white blood cells  Blood cells that attack and destroy pathogens that enter the body and stop them from causing infection.
withdrawal  An unpleasant reaction that occurs when a drug is no longer present in the body.
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