Question

Which of the following statements about the broader concept of an epidemic is incorrect?

1. The concept of an epidemic is strictly limited to infectious diseases and cannot apply to other public health issues.
2. Widespread public health issues stemming from lifestyle factors, such as high rates of smoking, can be considered an epidemic.
3. Elevated rates of drug addiction or accidents can fall under the broader definition of an epidemic if they represent a significant public health concern.

• A. ഒന്നും രണ്ടും
• B. രണ്ട്
• C. ഇവയൊന്നുമല്ല
• D. ഒന്ന് മാത്രം

Answer 1

Answer:

D. ഒന്ന് മാത്രം

• While traditionally associated with infectious diseases, the term 'epidemic' has evolved in public health to describe any disease or health-related condition that occurs in a community or region in excess of normal expectancy. This broader scope recognizes that chronic non-communicable diseases (like obesity or diabetes), mental health crises, or social issues (like opioid addiction or gun violence) can have widespread, devastating impacts on populations, mirroring the scale and urgency of infectious disease outbreaks. For instance, the 'opioid epidemic' or the 'obesity epidemic' are common terms used to highlight the severity and widespread nature of these public health challenges, necessitating a comprehensive, coordinated public health response.