Read the following passage about Nosophobia and mark the letter A, B, C or D on your answer sheet to indicate the option that best fits each...

Read the following passage about Nosophobia and mark the letter A, B, C or D on your answer sheet to indicate the option that best fits each of the numbered blanks from 18 to 22.

Nosophobia, also known as the fear of developing a particular disease, (18) ______. This phenomenon, (19) ______, manifests in individuals who experience extreme distress at the thought of contracting a specific disease. People suffering from nosophobia often find themselves consumed with irrational worry, even when they have no real evidence to support their fears.

Motivated by sensationalized media stories, (20) ______. The continuous flood of health-related headlines, particularly those that emphasize rare or severe illnesses, can intensify feelings of helplessness and dread. As a result, individuals with nosophobia may become hyper-aware of potential symptoms and overestimate their chances of developing these conditions. (21) ______.

In addition to the media’s influence, individuals with nosophobia often engage in unhealthy coping mechanisms to alleviate their concerns. These may include excessive online research, avoiding certain environments, or seeking frequent medical tests, all of which provide only temporary relief. (22) ______. Over time, this pattern can lead to more severe mental health issues, such as generalized anxiety disorder or depression, if left unaddressed.

(Adapted from Healthline)

Question 18:

A. are a mental health condition impacting a large part of the population
B. having constituted a mental health concern for a vast section of the population
C. that describes a psychological state that influences a notable portion of the population
D. is a psychological condition that affects a significant portion of the population