Healthcare is important part of science and its syllabus. Previous Year Question (PYQ) papers are invaluable resources for aspirants preparing for competitive exams like the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) examinations. In this article we present important PYQ on Healthcare.
PYQ on Healthcare
Q- Consider the following statements in respect of probiotics : (2022)
- Probiotics are made of both bacteria and yeast.
- The organisms in probiotics are found in foods we ingest but they do not naturally occur in our gut.
- Probiotics help in the digestion of milk sugars.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) 1 and 3
(d) 2 and 3
Answer- Option C
EXPLANATION
Statement 1: Probiotics consist of live beneficial bacteria and/or yeasts that are intended to provide health benefits when ingested or applied externally.
Statement 2: The assertion that probiotics naturally inhabit the human body is incorrect. While certain strains like L. acidophilus are found in the gut, probiotics are not universally present within the body. They primarily reside in the gastrointestinal tract, but can also be found in other areas such as the mouth, urinary tract, skin, and lungs.
Statement 3: Yogurt is a widely recognized food source rich in probiotics. Specific bacterial strains present in yogurt produce the enzyme ß-D-galactosidase, aiding in the breakdown of lactose found in dairy products into glucose and galactose. Consequently, probiotics contribute to the digestion of milk sugars.
Q- Which one of the following statements best describes the role of B cells and T cells in the human body? (2022)
(a) They protect the environmental allergens. body
(b) They alleviate the body’s pain and inflammation.
(c) They act as immunosuppressants in the body.
(d) They protect the body from the diseases caused by pathogens.
Answer- Option D
EXPLANATION
T cells, also known as T lymphocytes, play a crucial role in protecting the body from infections. They serve as a defense mechanism against various pathogens like bacteria, viruses, and fungi that we encounter daily. Without T cells, our susceptibility to these pathogens would pose life-threatening risks. T cells have the capability to eliminate infected or cancerous cells and orchestrate the immune response by assisting B cells in eradicating invading pathogens.
B cells, or B lymphocytes, produce antibodies, which are proteins that target and neutralize pathogens or foreign substances such as toxins. These antibodies bind to pathogens, preventing them from infecting normal cells. Additionally, B cells can enlist other cells to aid in the destruction of infected cells.
Q- The term “ACE2” is talked about in the context of (2021)
(a) genes introduced in the genetically modified plants
(b) development of India’s own satellite navigation system
(c) radio collars for wildlife tracking
(d) spread of viral diseases
Answer- Option D
EXPLANATION
ACE2, short for angiotensin-converting enzyme 2, is a protein present on the surface of numerous cell types. It serves as an enzyme that produces small proteins by cleaving the larger protein angiotensinogen, which subsequently regulates various cellular functions. The SARS-CoV-2 virus utilizes the spike-like protein on its surface to bind to ACE2, functioning akin to a key fitting into a lock, facilitating its entry and infection of cells. Therefore, ACE2 acts as a cellular receptor, serving as the gateway for the virus responsible for COVID-19.
Q- “Triclosan” considered harmful when exposed to high levels for a long time, is most likely present in which of the following? (2021)
(a) Food preservatives
(b) Fruit ripening substances
(c) reused plastic containers
(d) Toiletries
Answer- Option D
EXPLANATION
Triclosan is a common ingredient found in various consumer products, aimed at reducing or preventing bacterial contamination. It is frequently included in antibacterial soaps, body washes, toothpastes, and certain cosmetics.
Several short-term animal studies have suggested that exposure to high doses of triclosan may lead to a decrease in the levels of certain thyroid hormones. Additionally, there is some concern that triclosan exposure could potentially contribute to the development of antibiotic resistance in bacteria. However, there is currently insufficient data available to accurately assess the extent of risk that triclosan poses in this regard.
Q- With reference to the recent developments in science, which one of the following statements is not correct? (2019)
(a) Functional chromosomes can be created by joining segments of DNA taken from cells of different species.
(b) Pieces of artificial functional DNA can be created in laboratories.
(c) A piece of DNA taken out from an animal cell can be made to replicate outside a living cell in a laboratory.
(d) Cells taken out from plants and animals can be made to undergo cell division in laboratory petri dishes.
Answer- Option A
EXPLANATION
Artificial chromosomes can be engineered by combining segments of DNA obtained from cells of different species. However, functional chromosomes cannot be generated using DNA from disparate species. Thus, Option 1 is inaccurate.
Researchers at Cambridge University have successfully developed the world’s first living organism with a fully synthetic and extensively modified DNA code. Laboratories can create artificial functional DNA fragments through a process known as Artificial Gene Synthesis, validating statement 2.
Cloning involves replicating a piece of DNA extracted from an animal cell outside of a living organism in a laboratory setting, affirming statement 3.
Additionally, cells extracted from plants and animals can undergo cell division in laboratory Petri dishes, representing a process known as plant and animal tissue culture technology, confirming statement 4.
Q- Consider the following pairs: (2017)
| Commonly Used / Unwanted or controversial chemicals | consumed materials likely to be found in them |
| 1. Lipstick | Lead |
| 2. Softdrinks | Brominated Vegetable Oils |
| 3. Chinese Fast Food | Monosodium Glutamate |
Which of the pairs given above is/are correctly matched?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer- Option D
EXPLANATION
Lipsticks: Lead
Softdrinks: Brominated Vegetable Oils
Chinese Fast Food: Monosodium Glutamate