The Yellowish fluid Colostrum secreted by Mother during the initial days of lactation has Abundant

Question

Question

This question was previously asked in

AMRU HP BSc Nursing Admission Test 7 July 2024 Official Paper

Answer 1

Correct Answer: Antibodies

Rationale:

Colostrum is the yellowish fluid secreted by the mammary glands of mothers during the initial days of lactation, usually within the first few days after childbirth.
It is highly concentrated with antibodies, which are crucial for providing the newborn with passive immunity against various infections. These antibodies, particularly Immunoglobulin A (IgA), help protect the infant's gastrointestinal tract from pathogens.

Explanation of Other Options:

Antigens

Rationale: Antigens are substances that the immune system recognizes as foreign and harmful, prompting an immune response. Colostrum primarily contains antibodies, not antigens, to protect the newborn rather than trigger an immune response.

Allergy

Rationale: An allergy is an immune system reaction to a substance that is typically harmless to most people. Colostrum does not contain elements that cause allergies; rather, it provides protective antibodies to the newborn.

Oncogenes

Rationale: Oncogenes are genes that have the potential to cause cancer when mutated or expressed at high levels. Colostrum does not contain oncogenes; its primary function is to provide immunity to the newborn.

Conclusion:

Colostrum is essential for newborns as it is rich in antibodies, particularly IgA, which help in protecting the infant from infections during the early stages of life. The other options, such as antigens, allergies, and oncogenes, do not align with the primary function of colostrum in providing passive immunity.