A researcher uses stratified random sampling to study hypertension prevalence, stratifying by age (<40, 40–60, >60). Compared to simple random sampling, this approach is MOST advantageous when:

• A The population is homogeneous with respect to age
• B Hypertension prevalence varies considerably across age strata ✓
• C The sample size needs to be minimized at any cost
• D Convenience of data collection in the field is the primary concern

Explanation

Stratified random sampling maximizes efficiency and precision when the variable of interest (hypertension prevalence) differs substantially across strata (age groups). Stratification ensures each group is adequately represented and reduces within-stratum variance, yielding smaller standard errors than simple random sampling of the same total size. When the population is homogeneous across strata, stratification provides no statistical advantage.

Reference: Park's Textbook of Preventive and Social Medicine, 27th ed.

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