NCERT Class 12 Biology Biology: Chapter 7 — Human Health and Disease
This chapter introduces the concept of human health and disease, positioning biology as a relatively young but rapidly advancing scientific discipline. It highlights how progress in physics and chemistry historically outpaced biology, but the 20th and 21st centuries have seen biology's immense contribution to human welfare, particularly in health and agriculture. The text mentions the impact of discoveries like antibiotics and synthetic drugs on medical practice and life expectancy. It also touches upon the socio-cultural changes brought about by advancements in agriculture, food processing, and diagnostics. The chapter sets the stage for further discussion on these topics in subsequent chapters, including microbes in human welfare. The provided text also includes a brief biographical note on M.S. Swaminathan, a key figure in India's Green Revolution, emphasizing his contributions to genetics, plant breeding, and agricultural research.
Quick info
| Board | CBSE / NCERT |
|---|---|
| Class | Class 12 |
| Subject | Biology |
| Book | Biology |
| Chapter | Chapter 7 — Human Health and Disease |
| Language | English |
| PDF type | NCERT Textbook |
| Session | CBSE 2026 |
| Reading time | 1 minute |
| Word count | 139 |
Learning outcomes
- Understand the relative youth and rapid progress of biology as a scientific discipline.
- Recognize the significant impact of biological discoveries on human health and welfare.
- Appreciate the role of advancements in medicine, agriculture, and diagnostics in societal change.
- Gain an overview of the topics to be covered in subsequent chapters related to human welfare.
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Frequently asked questions
Why is biology considered a young discipline compared to physics and chemistry?
Biology is considered younger because its formalization and rapid progress, especially in areas impacting human welfare, have largely occurred in the 20th and 21st centuries, while physics and chemistry have a longer history of development.
How has biological knowledge improved human welfare?
Biological knowledge has significantly improved human welfare through discoveries like antibiotics, synthetic drugs, advancements in agriculture leading to food security, and improved diagnostics, all of which have enhanced life expectancy and quality of life.
What is the significance of the Green Revolution mentioned in the text?
The Green Revolution, initiated through collaboration with Norman Borlaug and driven by figures like M.S. Swaminathan, involved introducing high-yielding crop varieties (like Mexican wheat in India) to dramatically increase food production and combat hunger.
Who was M.S. Swaminathan and what were his key contributions?
M.S. Swaminathan was a renowned Indian botanist and geneticist, often called the 'Father of the Green Revolution in India'. His contributions include developing high-yielding crop varieties, the concept of crop cafeteria, and initiating programs like 'Lab-to-Land' and food security initiatives.
What kind of socio-cultural changes have resulted from biological advancements?
Advancements in agriculture, food processing, and diagnostics have led to significant socio-cultural changes, impacting food availability, health practices, and community structures.
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NCERT Class 12 Biology — Biology — Chapter 7 — Human Health and Disease. Verified by NCERT Help Editorial Team. Reviewed on 29 Jul 2026. Last updated 10 Aug 2026.