Among miners, 150 deaths from respiratory tuberculosis were observed over a decade, whereas 100 would be expected after applying national age-specific mortality rates to the cohort. The standardized mortality ratio and its interpretation are:
- A 150, mortality is 50% above expected ✓
- B 150, mortality is 150% above expected
- C 50, mortality is lower than expected
- D 1.5, mortality equals expectation
Correct answer: A. 150, mortality is 50% above expected
Explanation
SMR = observed divided by expected deaths, multiplied by 100: 150/100 x 100 = 150. An SMR of 150 means 50% excess mortality beyond what national rates predict. Option B confuses the SMR value with the percentage excess. This indirect method of standardization is used when age-specific rates within the study population are unavailable or unstable.
Reference: Park's Textbook of Preventive and Social Medicine, 27th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
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