How does a higher stomach pH affect the susceptibility to cholera?

A higher stomach pH can significantly impact the susceptibility to cholera, particularly by decreasing the ability to kill Vibrio cholerae. The stomach normally exhibits a highly acidic environment, which serves as a first line of defense against ingested pathogens, including bacteria. When the stomach pH is elevated, this acidic barrier weakens, and Vibrio cholerae can survive passage through the stomach more effectively.

In a lower stomach pH, the acid can denature proteins and harm bacteria, maintaining a hostile environment for pathogens. However, when the pH is higher, the acidity is reduced, making it less effective at neutralizing Vibrio cholerae. As a result, more of the bacteria may reach the intestines alive, leading to a higher risk of infection and the development of cholera, characterized by severe diarrhea and dehydration.

The other choices do not accurately reflect the impact of higher stomach pH on cholera susceptibility. For instance, enhancing bacterial growth or decreasing acid production does not directly contribute to the pathogen’s ability to establish an infection. Similarly, better absorption of pathogens does not address the specific role of stomach acidity in influencing cholera susceptibility. The critical factor is how a higher pH compromises the stomach's role as a barrier against