Which of the following best explains how drug use can cause the spread of diseases?

• A. Drug use always boosts the immune system, preventing disease transmission.
• B. Sharing needles during drug use can transmit blood-borne pathogens such as HIV and hepatitis.
• C. Most drugs contain antibiotics that kill disease-causing organisms.
• D. Drug use eliminates the need for safe sex practices.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the key concept in the question: how drug use can lead to the spread of diseases.
2. Understand that drug use itself does not inherently boost the immune system or contain antibiotics; these options are incorrect based on biological principles.
3. Recognize that sharing needles during drug use is a common behavior that can transmit blood-borne pathogens, such as HIV and hepatitis, because contaminated needles can carry infected blood from one person to another.
4. Consider that drug use might impair judgment, but it does not eliminate the need for safe sex practices; risky behaviors can increase disease transmission but are not a direct cause like needle sharing.
5. Conclude that the best explanation involves the direct transmission of diseases through shared needles, which is a well-documented route for spreading infections among drug users.