Why are immunocompromised individuals at a higher risk for infections?

Immunocompromised individuals are at a higher risk for infections primarily because of weakened immune systems. This condition can arise from various factors such as certain medical conditions (e.g., HIV/AIDS, cancer), treatments (like chemotherapy or immunosuppressive drugs), or genetic disorders that impair the immune response. A robust immune system is essential for recognizing and eliminating pathogens; when it is compromised, the body's ability to defend against infections diminishes significantly. As a result, these individuals may not only contract infections more easily but may also experience more severe manifestations of these infections compared to those with healthy immune systems.

Although factors like age, exposure to pathogens, and healthcare access can influence overall health and risk levels, the fundamental reason for the increased infection risk in immunocompromised individuals is their impaired immune function.