What physiological function does "-phagia" relate to?

The suffix "-phagia" is derived from Greek, which means "to eat" or "to swallow." It specifically refers to the act of swallowing food or fluids, making it directly related to the process of ingesting. In medical terminology, this suffix is often used to describe various eating or swallowing disorders, such as dysphagia, which indicates difficulty in swallowing.

Understanding the other options is important but does not apply in this case. Breathing, circulation, and digestion, while related to different bodily functions, are not specifically indicated by the suffix "-phagia." Breathing is associated with respiration, circulation pertains to the movement of blood, and digestion involves the breakdown of food but is not specifically tied to swallowing, which is the precise meaning conveyed by "-phagia." This clarity is essential in medical terminology as it helps in identifying and describing various conditions accurately.