Final answer:
The statement regarding microbes is true. Microbes provide essential life-sustaining benefits such as nutrient cycling, food production, and health maintenance, while also having the potential to cause life-threatening diseases. The balance of microorganisms is crucial for both environmental and human health.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement 'Microbes are associated with life-sustaining benefits as well as life-threatening diseases' is true. Microbes, also known as microorganisms, are incredibly diverse and interact with their environment and hosts in various ways. Many microbes are beneficial to both the environment and human health; for instance, microbes in our gut synthesize vitamin K and aid in digestion. These microbes are also essential in the production of bread, cheese, and beer, and play a critical role in the cycling of nutrients and decomposition in ecosystems.
However, some microbes can also be detrimental, causing serious or potentially lethal diseases. This includes certain bacteria, viruses, protozoa, and fungi. They can cause infectious diseases that are spread through various means, including respiratory transmission. These infectious diseases can have significant impacts on public health, as seen with diseases like malaria and giardiasis.
It's important to recognize that maintaining a completely germ-free environment is not only impractical but could be harmful. Overuse of antibiotics and sanitizers can lead to antibiotic resistance, making it tougher to fight off bacterial infections. While our bodies and the environment require a balance of microbes, awareness and management of harmful microorganisms is crucial for maintaining health and preventing diseases.