What does the prefix "hypo-" refer to?

The prefix "hypo-" refers to a state of being decreased or below normal. In medical terminology, it is commonly used to describe conditions that involve a deficiency or lower-than-normal level of a substance or function in the body. For example, "hypoglycemia" refers to a lower-than-normal level of glucose in the blood. This prefix conveys the idea of something being less than the usual or expected amount, making it essential for understanding various medical diagnoses and conditions. The other options do not accurately capture the meaning of "hypo-," as they refer to different concepts related to speed, absence, or an increase, rather than a decrease.