Reproductive diseases are disorders that affect the reproductive organs, reproductive functions, fertility, pregnancy, or sexual health of an individual. They may affect males, females, or both.
Some reproductive diseases are caused by infectious organisms, while others result from hormonal imbalance, genetic abnormalities, structural problems, lifestyle factors, or abnormal cell growth.
Understanding reproductive diseases is important for maintaining reproductive health, preventing infections, protecting fertility, and seeking timely medical treatment.
1. Major Categories of Reproductive Diseases
Reproductive diseases can broadly be classified into the following groups:
| Category | Examples |
|---|---|
| Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs/STD) | Gonorrhoea, Syphilis, Chlamydia, Genital herpes, HIV/AIDS |
| Bacterial infections | Gonorrhoea, Syphilis, Chlamydia |
| Viral infections | HIV/AIDS, Genital herpes, HPV infection |
| Fungal infections | Candidiasis |
| Parasitic infections | Trichomoniasis |
| Reproductive-system disorders | Endometriosis, PCOS, Prostatitis |
| Infertility-related disorders | Blocked fallopian tubes, low sperm count, ovulatory disorders |
| Cancers | Cervical cancer, prostate cancer, ovarian cancer, testicular cancer |
2. Sexually Transmitted Infections
Sexually transmitted infections are infections that can spread primarily through sexual contact with an infected person.
The terms STI and STD are often used interchangeably, but they are not exactly identical.
- STI means sexually transmitted infection.
- STD generally refers to a disease or condition that develops as a result of an infection.
A person may have an STI without showing obvious symptoms.
Common Sexually Transmitted Infections
Important STIs include:
- Gonorrhoea
- Syphilis
- Chlamydia
- Genital herpes
- Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection
- HIV infection
- Trichomoniasis
- Hepatitis B
3. Gonorrhoea
Gonorrhoea is a bacterial sexually transmitted infection caused by Neisseria gonorrhoeae.
Transmission
It can spread through:
- Vaginal sexual contact
- Anal sexual contact
- Oral sexual contact
- Transmission from an infected mother to the newborn during childbirth
Symptoms
Symptoms may include:
- Pain or burning during urination
- Abnormal genital discharge
- Pelvic pain in females
- Testicular pain or swelling in males
- Rectal discomfort or discharge in some cases
Some infected individuals, particularly females, may have few or no noticeable symptoms.
Complications
If untreated, gonorrhoea may cause:
- Pelvic inflammatory disease
- Infertility
- Epididymitis
- Infection in other parts of the body
- Increased risk of complications during pregnancy
Treatment
Gonorrhoea is treated with appropriate antibiotics prescribed by a healthcare professional.
Antibiotic resistance is an important public-health concern, so self-medication should be avoided.
4. Syphilis
Syphilis is a bacterial STI caused by Treponema pallidum.
It can progress through several stages.
Primary Syphilis
The first stage commonly produces a painless sore, called a chancre, at the site where the bacteria entered the body.
The sore may disappear without treatment, but the infection remains.
Secondary Syphilis
Possible symptoms include:
- Skin rash
- Fever
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Sore throat
- General weakness
Latent Syphilis
During this stage, the person may have no visible symptoms even though the infection remains in the body.
Tertiary Syphilis
Untreated infection can eventually damage:
- Brain
- Nerves
- Heart
- Blood vessels
- Other organs
Syphilis can also be transmitted from an infected pregnant person to the developing fetus.
Treatment
Syphilis can be treated effectively with appropriate antibiotics, particularly when diagnosed early.
5. Chlamydia
Chlamydia is caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis.
It is one of the common bacterial STIs and may remain asymptomatic.
Symptoms
Possible symptoms include:
- Burning during urination
- Abnormal genital discharge
- Pelvic pain
- Pain during sexual intercourse
- Testicular pain or swelling
Complications
Untreated chlamydia can cause:
- Pelvic inflammatory disease
- Damage to reproductive organs (Male Reprudctive Parts || Female Reproductive Parts)
- Infertility
- Ectopic pregnancy risk due to tubal damage
- Epididymitis in males
Treatment
Chlamydia is treated with prescribed antibiotics.
Sexual partners may also require testing and treatment to prevent reinfection.
6. Genital Herpes
Genital herpes is usually caused by Herpes simplex virus (HSV).
HSV-2 is commonly associated with genital herpes, although HSV-1 can also cause genital infection.
Symptoms
Common manifestations include:
- Painful blisters
- Small sores
- Burning or itching
- Pain during urination
- Flu-like symptoms during the first outbreak
Some infected people may have no noticeable symptoms.
Important Point
Herpes remains in the body after infection and may reactivate periodically.
Antiviral medicines can help reduce the duration and severity of outbreaks and lower the risk of transmission.
There is currently no routine cure that completely eliminates HSV from the body.
7. Human Papillomavirus Infection
Human papillomavirus, commonly called HPV, is a group of viruses that can infect the skin and mucous membranes.
Some HPV types cause:
- Genital warts
- Other warts
Certain high-risk HPV types can contribute to cancers, particularly:
- Cervical cancer
- Anal cancer
- Penile cancer
- Vulvar cancer
- Vaginal cancer
- Some cancers of the throat
Prevention
HPV infection can be reduced through:
- HPV vaccination
- Safer sexual practices
- Appropriate cervical cancer screening
HPV Vaccine
HPV vaccination provides protection against important HPV types associated with cancer and genital warts.
Vaccination is most effective when given before exposure to HPV, but recommended vaccination schedules vary according to age and individual circumstances.
8. HIV Infection and AIDS
HIV stands for Human Immunodeficiency Virus.
The virus attacks cells of the immune system, particularly CD4 T lymphocytes.
If untreated, progressive HIV infection can lead to AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome).
Modes of Transmission
HIV can be transmitted through:
- Unprotected sexual contact
- Contaminated blood
- Sharing contaminated needles or injection equipment
- Transmission from mother to child during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding
HIV is not spread by ordinary casual contact such as:
- Handshaking
- Hugging
- Sharing ordinary food
- Sitting beside an infected person
- Mosquito bites
Symptoms
Early HIV infection may cause flu-like symptoms, although some people have no symptoms.
As immune function becomes severely compromised, the person becomes more vulnerable to opportunistic infections and certain cancers.
Treatment
There is currently no routine cure that eliminates HIV from the body, but antiretroviral therapy (ART) can suppress the virus and allow many people with HIV to live long, healthy lives.
Effective treatment also greatly reduces the risk of sexual transmission.
9. Trichomoniasis
Trichomoniasis is a sexually transmitted infection caused by the protozoan parasite Trichomonas vaginalis.
Symptoms
In females, symptoms may include:
- Vaginal irritation
- Itching
- Unusual discharge
- Discomfort during urination
In males, infection is often asymptomatic but may cause:
- Irritation
- Burning during urination
- Penile discharge
Treatment
It is treated with specific antiparasitic medicines prescribed by healthcare professionals.
10. Candidiasis
Candidiasis is a fungal infection caused by species of the genus Candida, commonly Candida albicans.
It can affect the vagina and other body sites.
Symptoms of Vaginal Candidiasis
Possible symptoms include:
- Intense itching
- Vaginal irritation
- Redness
- Thick white discharge
- Burning sensation
Candidiasis is not classified as a classic STI, although sexual contact can sometimes contribute to transmission or recurrence.
11. Reproductive Disorders Other Than STIs
Not all reproductive diseases are sexually transmitted.
Many reproductive disorders result from:
- Hormonal abnormalities
- Genetic factors
- Immune-related mechanisms
- Structural abnormalities
- Metabolic factors
- Age-related changes
- Abnormal cell growth
- Lifestyle and environmental factors
12. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal and metabolic disorder affecting individuals with ovaries, particularly during the reproductive years.
Common Features
PCOS may be associated with:
- Irregular menstrual cycles
- Abnormal or absent ovulation
- Increased androgen activity
- Acne
- Excess facial or body hair
- Difficulty becoming pregnant
- Metabolic abnormalities
Not every person with PCOS has ovarian cysts, so the name can sometimes be misleading.
PCOS and Fertility
Irregular or absent ovulation can make conception more difficult.
However, many people with PCOS can conceive with appropriate medical management.
13. Endometriosis
Endometriosis is a condition in which tissue resembling the endometrium grows outside the normal uterine cavity.
Common sites include:
- Ovaries
- Fallopian tubes
- Pelvic lining
Symptoms
Common symptoms include:
- Severe menstrual pain
- Chronic pelvic pain
- Pain during sexual intercourse
- Pain during bowel movements or urination during menstruation
- Difficulty becoming pregnant
The severity of pain does not always correspond directly to the extent of disease.
Treatment
Treatment depends on symptoms, age, fertility goals, and disease severity.
Options may include:
- Pain-relieving medicines
- Hormonal treatment
- Surgery in selected cases
14. Pelvic Inflammatory Disease
Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) is an infection and inflammation of the female upper reproductive tract.
It may involve:
- Uterus
- Fallopian tubes
- Ovaries
- Surrounding pelvic tissues
PID can develop as a complication of untreated STIs such as chlamydia or gonorrhoea.
Symptoms
Possible symptoms include:
- Lower abdominal or pelvic pain
- Abnormal vaginal discharge
- Fever
- Pain during sexual intercourse
- Pain during urination
- Abnormal bleeding
Complications
Untreated PID can lead to:
- Tubal damage
- Infertility
- Ectopic pregnancy
- Chronic pelvic pain
- Pelvic abscess
Early diagnosis and treatment are important.
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15. Infertility
Infertility refers to difficulty achieving pregnancy after a defined period of regular unprotected sexual intercourse.
It can affect:
- Female reproductive function
- Male reproductive function
- Both partners
- Sometimes no clear cause is identified
Causes of Female Infertility
Important causes include:
- Ovulation disorders
- Blocked fallopian tubes
- Endometriosis
- Uterine abnormalities
- Age-related decline in fertility
- Hormonal disorders
Causes of Male Infertility
Important causes include:
- Low sperm count
- Poor sperm motility
- Abnormal sperm morphology
- Problems with sperm production
- Hormonal disorders
- Blockage of reproductive ducts
- Testicular disorders
Important Point
Infertility is not solely a female problem. Male factors contribute to a substantial proportion of infertility cases.
16. Male Reproductive Disorders
16.1 Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia
Benign prostatic hyperplasia, or BPH, is a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland that becomes more common with increasing age.
Symptoms
It may cause:
- Difficulty starting urination
- Weak urine stream
- Frequent urination
- Urgency
- Difficulty completely emptying the bladder
BPH is not prostate cancer.
16.2 Prostatitis
Prostatitis refers to inflammation of the prostate.
It may cause:
- Pelvic pain
- Pain during urination
- Difficulty urinating
- Pain associated with ejaculation
- Fever in some acute bacterial cases
Treatment depends on the underlying cause.
16.3 Epididymitis
Epididymitis is inflammation of the epididymis, the coiled tube located behind the testis.
Possible causes include bacterial infections, including certain STIs.
Symptoms
- Testicular or scrotal pain
- Swelling
- Tenderness
- Fever
- Pain during urination
Prompt medical evaluation is important because testicular torsion can produce similar acute pain and is a medical emergency.
17. Female Reproductive Disorders
17.1 Uterine Fibroids
Uterine fibroids are usually non-cancerous growths of the muscular tissue of the uterus.
They may cause:
- Heavy menstrual bleeding
- Pelvic pressure
- Pelvic pain
- Frequent urination
- Fertility problems in some individuals
Some fibroids produce no symptoms.
17.2 Ovarian Cysts
An ovarian cyst is a fluid-filled or other type of sac within or on an ovary.
Many ovarian cysts are harmless and disappear naturally.
However, some may:
- Become large
- Rupture
- Cause pain
- Twist the ovary
- Require medical treatment
Sudden severe pelvic pain requires urgent medical evaluation.
18. Reproductive Cancers
Cancer may develop in different reproductive organs.
Important examples include:
- Cervical cancer
- Ovarian cancer
- Uterine/endometrial cancer
- Vulvar cancer
- Vaginal cancer
- Prostate cancer
- Testicular cancer
- Penile cancer
18.1 Cervical Cancer
Cervical cancer develops in the cervix, the lower portion of the uterus.
Persistent infection with certain high-risk HPV types is the major cause of cervical cancer.
Prevention
Prevention strategies include:
- HPV vaccination
- Cervical cancer screening
- Appropriate follow-up of abnormal screening results
Early detection can significantly improve treatment outcomes.
18.2 Prostate Cancer
Prostate cancer develops in the prostate gland.
Risk increases with age.
Possible symptoms in advanced disease may include:
- Difficulty urinating
- Blood in urine or semen
- Bone pain
However, early prostate cancer may cause no symptoms.
Screening decisions should be made individually with a healthcare professional.
18.3 Testicular Cancer
Testicular cancer develops in the testes and is relatively uncommon compared with many other cancers.
A possible sign is:
- A painless lump or swelling in a testis
Other symptoms may include:
- Heaviness in the scrotum
- Discomfort
- Enlargement or changes in testicular size
Any new testicular lump should be medically evaluated.
19. Reproductive Diseases and Infertility
Reproductive diseases can affect fertility through different mechanisms.
| Disease/Condition | Possible effect on fertility |
|---|---|
| Gonorrhoea | Tubal damage, infertility |
| Chlamydia | PID, tubal damage |
| Endometriosis | Disturbed pelvic/reproductive function |
| PCOS | Irregular or absent ovulation |
| Low sperm count | Reduced probability of fertilisation |
| Blocked reproductive ducts | Prevents normal sperm transport |
| Testicular disorders | Reduced sperm production |
| Uterine disorders | May interfere with implantation or pregnancy |
20. Prevention of Reproductive Diseases
Prevention is one of the most important components of reproductive health.
20.1 Safe Sexual Practices
Risk of STI transmission can be reduced by:
- Using condoms correctly and consistently
- Reducing exposure to untreated infections
- Mutual testing where appropriate
- Avoiding sexual contact when an active infection is being treated
- Following medical advice regarding partner treatment
No single prevention method provides protection against every STI in every circumstance.
20.2 Vaccination
Vaccination can prevent important infections associated with reproductive health.
Important vaccines include:
- HPV vaccine
- Hepatitis B vaccine
Vaccination schedules depend on age and individual circumstances.
20.3 Regular Screening
Screening helps detect certain diseases before symptoms become obvious.
Examples include:
- Cervical cancer screening
- STI testing when indicated
- HIV testing when indicated
- Pregnancy-related screening
- Appropriate cancer screening based on age and risk
20.4 Personal Hygiene
Good hygiene helps reduce some infections.
Important habits include:
- Regular bathing
- Keeping genital areas clean and dry
- Wearing clean underwear
- Avoiding unnecessary irritants
- Avoiding self-medication
However, excessive washing or use of harsh chemicals in the genital area can itself cause irritation.
21. Diagnosis of Reproductive Diseases
Diagnosis depends on the suspected condition.
Doctors may use:
Medical History
Information about:
- Symptoms
- Menstrual history
- Sexual history
- Previous infections
- Medications
- Pregnancy history
- Fertility history
Physical Examination
A physical examination may help identify:
- Swelling
- Lesions
- Abnormal discharge
- Masses
- Tenderness
Laboratory Tests
Depending on the disease:
- Blood tests
- Urine tests
- Vaginal/cervical swabs
- Urethral samples
- Semen analysis
- HIV testing
- STI-specific molecular tests
Imaging
Imaging may include:
- Ultrasound
- MRI
- CT in selected situations
22. Treatment of Reproductive Diseases
Treatment depends entirely on the cause.
| Cause | General treatment approach |
|---|---|
| Bacterial infection | Appropriate antibiotics |
| Viral infection | Antiviral treatment for selected infections |
| Fungal infection | Antifungal medicines |
| Parasitic infection | Antiparasitic medicines |
| Hormonal disorder | Lifestyle and/or hormonal treatment |
| Structural disorder | Medicines or surgery depending on condition |
| Cancer | Surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, targeted or other treatments depending on cancer |
| Infertility | Treatment based on the underlying cause |
Important Rule
Do not take antibiotics, hormones, antifungal medicines, or other prescription medicines without appropriate medical advice.
23. Reproductive Health and Social Awareness
Reproductive diseases are sometimes associated with stigma and misinformation.
Students should understand that:
- Having an STI does not make a person morally bad.
- Many infections can be prevented or treated.
- Some infections produce no symptoms.
- Early testing can prevent complications.
- Sexual health is a part of overall health.
- Confidential medical care is important.
- Both males and females can experience reproductive health problems.
Scientific knowledge should replace shame, fear, and misinformation.
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24. Important Differences
STI vs Non-STI Reproductive Diseases
| Feature | STI | Non-STI reproductive disorder |
|---|---|---|
| Main cause | Infectious organism | Hormonal, genetic, structural, metabolic, immune, etc. |
| Transmission | Some can spread through sexual contact | Usually not transmitted sexually |
| Examples | Gonorrhoea, syphilis, HIV | PCOS, fibroids, endometriosis |
| Prevention | Safer sex, vaccination, testing | Depends on underlying cause |
| Treatment | Antimicrobial/antiviral treatment where appropriate | Depends on disease |
25. High-Yield NEET Points
- Gonorrhoea → Neisseria gonorrhoeae
- Syphilis → Treponema pallidum
- Chlamydia → Chlamydia trachomatis
- Genital herpes → Herpes simplex virus
- HIV infection → Human immunodeficiency virus
- Trichomoniasis → Trichomonas vaginalis
- Candidiasis → Candida species
- HPV → Human papillomavirus
- Persistent high-risk HPV infection is strongly associated with cervical cancer.
- Untreated gonorrhoea and chlamydia may cause PID and infertility.
- PCOS is associated with ovulatory dysfunction and androgen excess.
- Endometriosis involves endometrium-like tissue outside the uterine cavity.
- Infertility can result from male as well as female factors.
- HIV primarily affects CD4 T lymphocytes.
- HIV is not transmitted through ordinary casual contact.
- HPV vaccination helps prevent important HPV-related diseases.
- Cervical cancer screening helps detect precancerous changes and early cancer.
26. Frequently Asked Questions
What are reproductive diseases?
Reproductive diseases are disorders that affect reproductive organs, reproductive functions, fertility, pregnancy, or sexual health.
Are all reproductive diseases sexually transmitted?
No. Diseases such as gonorrhoea and syphilis are sexually transmitted, but conditions such as PCOS, endometriosis, fibroids, and many reproductive cancers are not STIs.
Which organisms cause gonorrhoea and syphilis?
Gonorrhoea is caused by Neisseria gonorrhoeae, while syphilis is caused by Treponema pallidum.
Can STIs occur without symptoms?
Yes. Several STIs may be asymptomatic, particularly during some stages of infection.
Can reproductive diseases cause infertility?
Yes. Some infections, hormonal disorders, structural abnormalities, and reproductive-organ diseases can impair fertility.
Is HIV the same as AIDS?
No. HIV is the virus. AIDS is the advanced clinical syndrome that can develop when HIV causes severe immune-system damage.
Can HPV cause cancer?
Yes. Persistent infection with certain high-risk HPV types can contribute to several cancers, especially cervical cancer.
Can PCOS cause infertility?
PCOS can make conception difficult because abnormal ovulation may occur, but many people with PCOS can become pregnant with appropriate management.
Can reproductive diseases be prevented?
Many can be prevented or their risk reduced through vaccination, safer sexual practices, screening, early diagnosis, hygiene, and appropriate healthcare.
Why is early diagnosis important?
Early diagnosis can allow timely treatment, reduce complications, prevent transmission of certain infections, and protect fertility and overall health.
27. Important MCQs for NEET and Class 12
MCQ 1. Gonorrhoea is caused by:
A. Treponema pallidum
B. Neisseria gonorrhoeae
C. Trichomonas vaginalis
D. Candida albicans
Correct Answer: B. Neisseria gonorrhoeae
MCQ 2. Syphilis is caused by:
A. Treponema pallidum
B. HIV
C. HPV
D. Neisseria gonorrhoeae
Correct Answer: A. Treponema pallidum
MCQ 3. Which virus is strongly associated with cervical cancer?
A. HIV
B. HPV
C. Influenza virus
D. Adenovirus
Correct Answer: B. HPV
MCQ 4. HIV primarily attacks:
A. RBCs
B. Platelets
C. CD4 T lymphocytes
D. Osteocytes
Correct Answer: C. CD4 T lymphocytes
MCQ 5. Trichomoniasis is caused by:
A. A bacterium
B. A fungus
C. A protozoan parasite
D. A virus
Correct Answer: C. A protozoan parasite
MCQ 6. Which condition is associated with abnormal or absent ovulation?
A. PCOS
B. Common cold
C. Myopia
D. Anaemia
Correct Answer: A. PCOS
MCQ 7. Endometriosis involves growth of endometrium-like tissue:
A. Only inside the uterus
B. Outside the normal uterine cavity
C. Only inside the vagina
D. Only inside the cervix
Correct Answer: B. Outside the normal uterine cavity
MCQ 8. Which infection can lead to pelvic inflammatory disease and infertility if untreated?
A. Chlamydia
B. Common cold
C. Measles
D. Malaria
Correct Answer: A. Chlamydia
MCQ 9. Which vaccine is particularly important for preventing HPV-related diseases?
A. HPV vaccine
B. BCG vaccine
C. Rabies vaccine
D. Polio vaccine
Correct Answer: A. HPV vaccine
MCQ 10. Which of the following is NOT normally considered an STI?
A. Gonorrhoea
B. Syphilis
C. Chlamydia
D. PCOS
Correct Answer: D. PCOS
MCQ 11. Which reproductive condition is associated with painful menstruation and pelvic pain?
A. Endometriosis
B. Common cold
C. Hypertension
D. Cataract
Correct Answer: A. Endometriosis
MCQ 12. AIDS is associated with severe impairment of:
A. Digestive function
B. Immune function
C. Bone formation
D. Vision
Correct Answer: B. Immune function
MCQ 13. Which disease is caused by a fungus?
A. Syphilis
B. Gonorrhoea
C. Candidiasis
D. HIV infection
Correct Answer: C. Candidiasis
MCQ 14. Which of the following may contribute to male infertility?
A. Low sperm count
B. Improved sperm motility
C. Normal sperm production
D. Normal reproductive anatomy
Correct Answer: A. Low sperm count
MCQ 15. Which organ is primarily affected by prostate cancer?
A. Prostate gland
B. Kidney
C. Liver
D. Pancreas
Correct Answer: A. Prostate gland
MCQ 16. A painless chancre is classically associated with:
A. Syphilis
B. Gonorrhoea
C. Candidiasis
D. Trichomoniasis
Correct Answer: A. Syphilis
MCQ 17. Which condition can result from untreated upper reproductive tract infection?
A. Pelvic inflammatory disease
B. Myopia
C. Asthma
D. Diabetes insipidus
Correct Answer: A. Pelvic inflammatory disease
MCQ 18. Which statement about HIV transmission is correct?
A. It spreads through ordinary handshaking
B. It spreads through mosquito bites
C. It can spread through infected blood
D. It spreads by sitting beside an infected person
Correct Answer: C. It can spread through infected blood
MCQ 19. Which reproductive cancer is strongly linked with persistent high-risk HPV infection?
A. Cervical cancer
B. Kidney cancer
C. Thyroid cancer
D. Bone cancer
Correct Answer: A. Cervical cancer
MCQ 20. Which statement is correct about infertility?
A. It is always caused by females
B. It is always caused by males
C. It can involve male, female, combined, or unexplained factors
D. It is always caused by infection
Correct Answer: C. It can involve male, female, combined, or unexplained factors
Quick Revision: Reproductive Diseases at a Glance
Bacterial STIs:
Gonorrhoea, Syphilis, Chlamydia
Viral STIs:
HIV, Genital herpes, HPV
Parasitic STI:
Trichomoniasis
Fungal infection:
Candidiasis
Major non-infectious reproductive disorders:
PCOS, Endometriosis, Fibroids, Ovarian cysts
Major reproductive cancers:
Cervical, ovarian, uterine/endometrial, prostate, testicular and other reproductive cancers
Key prevention:
Vaccination + safer sexual practices + screening + early diagnosis + appropriate treatment
Exam Tip: For NEET, remember the causative organism, mode of transmission, major symptoms, complications, prevention and treatment principle of important reproductive infections. These are frequently tested through direct and match-the-following questions.
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