Susceptibility

The likelihood of producing a significantly larger-than-average response to a specified exposure to a substance.

Susceptibility can be subdivided into innate and acquired susceptibility.

Innate susceptibility may be due to genetic predisposition or to incomplete development of normal (adult) physiological functions. A young child may be susceptible to a given substance because detoxification processes are not yet fully developed. Such susceptibility is transient and disappears with age and growth.

Acquired susceptibility may be due to disease, socioeconomic status or age.

Source: WHO/Europe  Answers to follow-up questions from CAFE

Vulnerability (in health science)

Español: Susceptibilidad
Français: Susceptibilité

Respiratory Diseases

Psychoactive Drugs

PCBs

Diet & Nutrition

Climate Change