What does "Brady-" refer to when describing a physiological condition?

The prefix "Brady-" is derived from the Greek word "bradys," which means slow. In medical terminology, it is commonly used to describe conditions characterized by a slower than normal pace, especially in relation to heart rate. For example, bradycardia refers to a heart rate that is slower than the normal range, typically defined as fewer than 60 beats per minute in adults.

Understanding this prefix is important for interpreting various medical terms accurately, as it clearly indicates a deviation from the average speed or rate toward a slower state. This is distinct from other prefixes, such as "tachy-," which indicates an abnormally fast condition.