Q. Consider the following statements regarding the chronic pulmonary aspergillosis (CPA) infection:
1.It is caused by a fungus.
2.In India, it mainly affects tea plantation workers in Assam.
Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct?
Explanations –
Statement 1 is correct. Chronic pulmonary aspergillosis (CPA) is caused by the fungus Aspergillus fumigatus and other species of Aspergillus. These fungi are commonly found in the environment and can infect individuals with pre-existing lung conditions, particularly those who have had tuberculosis (TB) or other chronic lung diseases.
Statement 2 is incorrect. While a recent study has highlighted a high prevalence of CPA among tea plantation workers in Assam due to factors like TB prevalence and poor living conditions, CPA is not exclusive to this group. It primarily affects individuals with pre-existing lung damage or weakened immunity, regardless of their occupation or location. CPA can affect individuals with pre-existing lung conditions across various regions and populations.
Source: The Hindu
