A-Z of health information

There is no real explanation as to why some men are gay and others are not; it is just part of the wide variety of human sexuality.

An anaesthetic is a drug or agent that produces a complete or partial loss of feeling.

A general practitioner (GP) is a doctor who is also qualified in general medical practice. GPs are often the first point of contact for someone, of any age, who feels sick or has a health concern.

Worrying can be constructive if it helps you to work out possible solutions to a problem, but some people are troubled by excessive anxiety.

Children inherit physical characteristics such as eye colour from their parents through their genes.

Genetic services, testing and conditions.

Genetic conditions are caused by an altered or faulty gene or set of genes.

Genetic counsellors provide information, support and advice to people undergoing or considering genetic testing.

Familial hypercholesterolaemia is an inherited condition characterised by higher than normal levels of blood cholesterol.

Genetic services can help people who are affected by, or who are at risk of, inherited conditions or birth defects, to make informed choices about their healthcare.