Viral diseases and human evolution
Mem. Inst. Oswaldo Cruz
; 95(supl.1): 193-200, 2000.
Article
in English
| LILACS
| ID: lil-274881
Responsible library:
BR1.1
RESUMO
The interaction of man with viral agents was possibly a key factor shaping human evolution, culture and civilization from its outset. Evidence of the effect of disease, since the early stages of human speciation, through pre-historical times to the present suggest that the types of viruses associated with man changed in time. As human populations progressed technologically, they grew in numbers and density. As a consequence different viruses found suitable conditions to thrive and establish long-lasting associations with man. Although not all viral agents cause disease and some may in fact be considered beneficial, the present situation of overpopulation, poverty and ecological inbalance may have devastating effects on human progress. Recently emerged diseases causing massive pandemics (e.g., HIV-1 and HCV, dengue, etc.) are becoming formidable challenges, which may have a direct impact on the fate of our species
Full text:
Available
Collection:
International databases
Health context:
Neglected Diseases
Health problem:
Dengue
Database:
LILACS
Main subject:
Virus Diseases
/
Biological Evolution
Limits:
Humans
Language:
English
Journal:
Mem. Inst. Oswaldo Cruz
Journal subject:
Tropical Medicine
/
Parasitology
Year:
2000
Document type:
Article
/
Congress and conference
Affiliation country:
Brazil
Institution/Affiliation country:
Universidade Federal de Säo Paulo/BR