What is the term for loss of appetite?

Study for the DHO Health Science Test. Hone your skills with engaging flashcards and multiple-choice questions. Each question is followed by hints and explanations to help you excel. Get exam-ready now!

The term for loss of appetite is anorexia. This condition reflects a decreased desire to eat and can be associated with various physical and psychological issues. Anorexia might arise from factors such as illness, stress, or emotional disturbances, leading to a significant impact on an individual's nutritional intake and overall health.

Anorexia nervosa, which is another term provided in the options, specifically refers to an eating disorder characterized by an intense fear of gaining weight and a distorted body image, which can lead to severe weight loss and health complications. While both terms include "anorexia," only the first option accurately describes the general symptom of loss of appetite without the additional connotations of an eating disorder.

Anxiety relates to feelings of worry and fear and doesn't specifically address changes in appetite, whereas anemia refers to a condition marked by a deficiency in red blood cells or hemoglobin, which also does not directly indicate loss of appetite. Thus, anorexia is the most appropriate term for loss of appetite in this context.

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