An epidemiological research is being conducted to investigate the impact of type II diabetes on a large population with limited migration. Over a 30-year period, disease incidence and prevalence are tracked and documented as the number of cases per 1,000 people. Which of the following is the most plausible cause for the graph's shift in illness prevalence?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Eductional Objective: Prevalence equals the incidence rate multiplied by the average disease duration.  Changing disease prevalence in a steady-state population with a constant incidence rate means that there is an additional factor affecting the duration of the condition.  A factor that prolongs disease duration (eg, improved quality of care) will increase disease prevalence, as affected patients survive longer.

An Epidemiological Research Is Being Conducted to Investigate the Impact