susceptibility

Susceptibility refers to the state of having little resistance to an outside agent, such as a pathogen. This lack of resistance, or sensitivity, means an organism is more likely to be affected by external factors.12

In the context of disease, susceptibility is a crucial factor in pathogenesis. Even when exposed to a causative agent, not everyone will develop the disease. Host factors, including resistance, immunity, age, and nutritional status, play a significant role in determining whether disease develops. Genetic factors can also influence an individual's susceptibility, with some individuals inheriting a greater predisposition to certain conditions. Environmental influences and the specific characteristics of the infectious agent also contribute to the likelihood of disease development.34