11. A healthcare provider tells an individual, 'Your fair skin predisposes you to skin carcinomas.' What does the word 'predispose' mean in this sentence?
Answer: B
Makes susceptible to
In this context, 'predispose' means to make someone more susceptible to a particular condition or disease, in this case, skin carcinomas due to fair skin.
A) Becomes impervious to
This option is incorrect because 'impervious' means not allowing something to pass through, which is the opposite of being susceptible. The sentence indicates that fair skin increases the risk of developing skin cancer, rather than providing any form of immunity.
B) Makes susceptible to
This option is correct as it accurately reflects the meaning of 'predispose.' It indicates that fair skin increases the likelihood of developing skin carcinomas, aligning perfectly with the healthcare provider's statement.
C) Provides protection from
This choice is incorrect because it suggests that fair skin would protect against skin carcinomas, which contradicts the original statement. The term 'predispose' implies an increased risk, not a protective factor.
D) Creates protection for
This option is also incorrect as it implies that fair skin offers some form of defense against skin carcinomas. Similar to option C, this misinterprets the meaning of 'predispose,' which indicates a vulnerability rather than a protective quality.
Conclusion
The term 'predispose' in the context of the healthcare provider's statement clearly means 'makes susceptible to,' which is encapsulated by option B. All other options misinterpret the term, either suggesting immunity or protection, which directly contradicts the implication that fair skin increases the risk of skin carcinomas. Thus, option B is the definitive correct choice.