The nurse is reviewing information on lactose intolerance and learned that in some racial groups lactase activity (ability to digest and absorb lactose) is high at birth but declines to low levels by adulthood. Which ethnic group has the highest potential for lactose-intolerance symptoms in adulthood?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Millions of American adults have the potential for lactose-intolerance symptoms; while 70-80% of White Americans produce lactase adequately into adulthood, only 30% of Mexican Americans, 20% of African Americans, and no American Indians will maintain adequate ability to digest lactose without adverse symptoms.

The Nurse Is Reviewing Information on Lactose Intolerance and Learned