Which of the following is a possible consequence of abusing intravenous drugs?

• A. Enhanced cognitive performance over time
• B. Improved immune system functioning
• C. Increased risk of contracting blood-borne infections such as HIV or hepatitis
• D. Decreased likelihood of developing psychological disorders

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the context of intravenous drug abuse, which involves injecting substances directly into the bloodstream, bypassing many of the body's natural defenses.
2. Recognize that intravenous drug use can introduce pathogens directly into the bloodstream, increasing the risk of blood-borne infections such as HIV and hepatitis.
3. Evaluate the options given: enhanced cognitive performance and improved immune system functioning are unlikely outcomes of drug abuse, as drugs typically impair these functions.
4. Consider psychological effects: intravenous drug abuse often increases the likelihood of developing psychological disorders rather than decreasing it.
5. Conclude that the most accurate consequence among the options is the increased risk of contracting blood-borne infections due to the nature of intravenous drug use.