True or False: Thrush fungal infections often occur in patients who are immunocompromised.

Thrush, which is also known as oral candidiasis, is indeed more common in patients who are immunocompromised. This is primarily because a healthy immune system typically keeps fungal infections like those caused by Candida species in check. In individuals with weakened immune systems—whether due to conditions like HIV/AIDS, cancer treatments, diabetes, or certain medications such as corticosteroids—the body’s ability to control these fungi diminishes. As a result, the fungi can multiply unchecked, leading to infections like thrush.

When considering the options, age can play a role in susceptibility (such as in infants or the elderly) but is not the primary factor linking thrush with immunocompromised states. Similarly, having diabetes alone does not mean that thrush occurs only in diabetic patients; it can affect other individuals with various underlying health concerns. Thus, the statement aligns with the established understanding of thrush and its association with a compromised immune system.