Increases in life expectancy in the United States during the twentieth century were due primarily to
A)the control of childhood and infectious diseases.
B)the defeat of chronic illness.
C)the fitness boom.
D)increased use of vitamin supplements.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The control of childhood and infectious diseases, through vaccines, better sanitation and hygiene, and medical treatments, played a significant role in the increase of life expectancy in the United States during the twentieth century. Chronic illnesses, such as heart disease and cancer, still pose a challenge to health, but the reduction in mortality from infectious diseases accounted for most of the gains. The fitness boom and increased use of vitamin supplements may have contributed to better health outcomes, but they were not the primary factor for the increase in life expectancy.

Increases in Life Expectancy in the United States During the Twentieth