Which prefix indicates a status that is below normal?

The prefix that indicates a status that is below normal is "hypo-." In medical terminology, "hypo-" is used to denote a deficiency or lower-than-normal level of a particular substance or condition. For example, in the term "hypoglycemia," it describes abnormally low blood sugar levels.

Understanding prefixes in medical terms is crucial, as they provide essential information about the patient's condition. Other prefixes provided, such as "hyper-," indicate an excess or above normal level (like "hyperglycemia," which refers to high blood sugar). "Pre-" refers to a position before something, and "peri-" means surrounding or around. Thus, the correct answer accurately represents a condition that is below the expected or normal levels.