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Science SPM Chapter 10 Chemicals in Medicine and Health
The Effects of Free Radicals on Human Health
1. Free radicals damage body cells as shown in Figure 10.6.
Free radical
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Form 4
Human cell
Figure 10.6
2. Excess production of free radicals creates a phenomenon called oxidative stress.
Unstable atoms tend to
Free radicals are toxic Free radicals have obtain electrons from
by-products of body
metabolism unstable atoms other atoms to be more
stable
Oxidative stress exists
when the rate of this Oxidative stress can
This process damages process increases cause various types of
living cells
beyond the capability of chronic diseases
the body to neutralise it
3. Oxidative stress is related to the following health problems:
(a) Effect of aging as seen in wrinkled skin and hair loss.
(b) Cardiovascular disease caused by blockage of arteries.
(c) Malfunction of kidneys, livers and lungs.
(d) Formation of carcinogens which cause cell mutations and cancers.
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