There is a Strong Correlation Between Stress and Susceptibility to Colds

Question

There is a strong correlation between stress and susceptibility to colds. What does this mean?
A) Stress must directly cause susceptibility to colds.
B) A high susceptibility to colds must directly cause stress.
C) People with high stress must come into contact with more cold viruses.
D) Stress might or might not affect susceptibility to colds.

Accepted Answer

The correlation between stress and susceptibility to colds suggests that there is a relationship between the two factors, but it does not necessarily mean that stress directly causes susceptibility to colds or that a high susceptibility to colds directly causes stress. Other factors, such as lifestyle and immune system function, could also play a role. Thus, answer choice D is the best option.