
P
Go to “P” lessons: K-3rd grade / 4th-5th grade / 6-8th grade / 9-12th grade
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Pads
Absorbent materials commonly used for menstrual hygiene, designed to manage menstrual flow externally and are available in various sizes and absorbencies.
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Pancreas
A vital organ involved in digestion and blood sugar regulation, the pancreas produces digestive enzymes and insulin
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Pandemics
Global outbreaks of infectious diseases that affect large populations across continents impacting healthcare systems, economies, and social dynamics. These widespread health crises pose significant challenges and require coordinated international efforts to mitigate their impact.
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Pasteurize
A process of heating liquids, particularly milk, to eliminate harmful bacteria and pathogens while preserving the product's quality. This method reduces the risk of food borne illnesses and prolongs the shelf life of various liquid products.
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Pathogen
A microorganism, such as bacteria, viruses, protozoa, or fungi, that can cause disease in a host organism. Pathogens can be transmitted through various means and public health measures focus on controlling the spread of pathogens.
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Peer Pressure
The influence exerted by peers to conform to certain behaviors, attitudes, or actions which can impact decision-making and behaviors, both positively and negatively, during all stages of life.
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Peer Review
A rigorous evaluation process in which experts evaluate and assess the quality and validity of research or academic work. Peer review helps to ensures the reliability of scientific knowledge; publications are considered authoritative and trustworthy sources of information in various disciplines.
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Pelvic Floor
The pelvic floor consists of muscles, ligaments, and connective tissues at the base of the pelvis that support organs such as the bladder, uterus, and rectum. Maintaining pelvic floor health is essential for functions like bowel and bladder control, sexual health, and musculoskeletal stability.
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Penis
A reproductive organ responsible for transferring sperm and urine out of the body. It consists of various structures, including the shaft and glans, and becomes erect during sexual arousal.
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Perineum
The area between the genitals and anus, encompassing the pelvic floor. This region is important for childbirth and sexual health.
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Perpetrator
Someone who causes harm or commits a violent act. Addressing their actions can help prevent further harm, ensure a safer society, and hold perpetrators accountable.
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Personal Challenges
Obstacles, difficulties, or adversities that individuals may face in different areas of their lives. Though personal challenges are also experienced in groups, personal challenges are unique to individuals and can range from relationships to current or past trauma to professional pursuits.
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Personal Strengths
An individual's positive attributes, skills, and qualities that contribute to their overall resilience and success. Leveraging personal strengths enhances self-esteem, fosters effective problem-solving, and promotes personal growth.
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Perspective
Perspective is the way someone views or understands something, shaped by their experiences, knowledge, and beliefs. It influences how they interpret situations, make decisions, or form opinions.
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Perspective Taking
Perspective taking is the ability to understand and consider another person's viewpoint or experiences. Individuals can navigate social situations with greater understanding and mutual respect by appreciating different perspectives.
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Pesticides
Substances or mixtures used to control pests, including insects, weeds, and pathogens. Pesticides may be chemical, biological, or natural agents and their use raises concerns related to environmental impact and human and animal health.
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Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances
Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) are human-made chemicals used in various products for their water- and grease-resistant properties. PFAS are persistent in the environment and have potential human health effects that raise questions about their long-term effects.
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Physical Changes
Alterations in the structure, appearance, or functioning of the body, often occurring naturally throughout life stages or as a result of environmental influences and lifestyle choices.
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Physical Health
The health of the body's physiological functions, including organ systems, fitness, and overall vitality. Physical health involves practices such as exercise, nutrition, and regular medical check-ups.
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Pineal Gland
A small, pea-shaped structure located deep in the brain. The pineal gland plays a key role in regulating sleep-wake cycles by producing and controlling the hormone melatonin.
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Pituitary Gland
A small, pea-shaped gland located at the base of the brain, the pituitary gland is often called the "master gland" because it produces and releases hormones that regulate many of the body’s functions, such as growth, metabolism, reproduction, and stress response.
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Plasma
The liquid component of blood, plasma makes up the majority of its volume. It serves as a transport medium for cells and substances, including nutrients, hormones, and waste products.
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Platelets
Small cell fragments in the blood that play a key role in blood clotting and wound healing. When blood vessels are injured, platelets adhere to the site and release clotting factors, forming a clot to prevent excessive bleeding.
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Playground Safety
Measures and precautions to prevent injuries on playgrounds to facilitate a safe environment for children to engage in recreational activities.
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Playing Safe
Taking precautions and following guidelines to ensure a safe and enjoyable play experience. Playing safe includes using appropriate equipment, following rules, and being mindful of potential risks to prevent accidents.
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Poliomyelitis
Commonly known as polio, poliomyelitis is a viral infection that can lead to paralysis. Vaccination efforts have been successful in reducing the incidence of polio worldwide.
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Politician
Someone involved in public affairs, often in an elected or appointed role, representing people and making policies. Voting responsibly by evaluating their qualifications, ethics, and policies helps ensure effective governance and accountability.
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Politics
Refers to governing and making decisions for a society through activities, policies, and practices. Staying informed, voting, and participating in civic activities are some methods to keep the political system responsive and support democracy.
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Pollen
Pollen consists of microscopic grains produced by plants for reproductive purposes, often dispersed through the air. Pollen is essential for plant reproduction and airborne pollen can trigger allergic reactions in individuals.
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Pollination
A process where pollen is transferred from the male part of a flower to the female part, leading to fertilization and seed production. Pollination is essential for plant reproduction and the production of fruits and seeds. Pollinators, such as bees, butterflies, birds, and bats, are part of this ecological process.
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Pollution
The introduction of contaminants into the environment, leading to harmful effects on ecosystems and the health of living things. Types of pollution include air, water, and soil pollution.
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Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome
Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal disorder that leads to irregular menstrual cycles and cyst formation on the ovaries. It can impact fertility and increase the risk of other health conditions.
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Pool Safety
Measures and strategies to prevent accidents like drowning and injuries in swimming pools including proper fencing, supervision, and adherence to safety guidelines.
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Popular Culture
The ideas, beliefs, practices, and products that shape contemporary society. Popular culture reflects the shared experiences and expressions of a community, influencing cultural norms, entertainment, and communication.
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Population Health
The health outcomes of entire populations including factors such as social determinants, healthcare access, and environmental influences. Population health dynamics inform public health strategies and interventions to promote health on a broader scale.
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Portion Size
Refers to the amount of food served or consumed in a single eating occasion. Managing portion sizes is necessary to prevent overconsumption and awareness of appropriate portion sizes contributes to healthy eating habits.
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Potassium
A mineral and electrolyte that helps balance fluids, control nerve signals, and support muscle movements. It’s important for heart health and cell communication and is found in foods like bananas, potatoes, and spinach.
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Pregnancy
The period during which a fertilized egg develops into a fetus in the uterus. Pregnancy involves various stages, including conception, gestation, and childbirth.
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Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis
Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) involves the use of medications to prevent the transmission of certain infections, such as HIV, in individuals at high risk. PrEP is a preventive strategy for those with increased vulnerability to specific diseases.
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Progesterone
A hormone made by the ovaries after ovulation and by the placenta during pregnancy. Progesterone helps regulate the menstrual cycle, prepares the uterus for pregnancy, and affects mood, immune function, and breast tissue development.
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Prolapse
Occurs when an organ or structure within the body, such as the uterus, bladder, or rectum, descends or moves out of its normal position.
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Propoganda
Propaganda is a systematic effort to disseminate information, ideas, or opinions, often with a biased or misleading nature, to influence public perception and behavior. Developing awareness of propaganda techniques empowers individuals to engage with information critically and distinguish between objective information and persuasive tactics.
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Prostate
A small gland located below the bladder that plays a role in supporting sperm viability and motility.
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Proteins
Essential macronutrients composed of amino acids that support various bodily functions, playing a fundamental role in various biological processes. Proteins are crucial for cell structure, function, and regulation, contributing to overall health.
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Public Health
The science and practice of protecting and improving the health of communities through education, policy-making, research, and promoting healthy lifestyles. Public health focuses on preventing diseases, extending life, and ensuring access to healthcare and health services for all people, often through government and community efforts.
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