The concept of 'iceberg phenomenon' in infectious disease epidemiology best describes:
- A That the majority of cases in a community are subclinical or undiagnosed, with only a fraction appearing as clinical disease ✓
- B That severe disease cases form the bulk of disease burden
- C That early cases are visible but late complications are hidden
- D Progressive increase in disease severity over time
Correct answer: A. That the majority of cases in a community are subclinical or undiagnosed, with only a fraction appearing as clinical disease
Explanation
The iceberg phenomenon describes how the clinically apparent (diagnosed) cases represent only the tip above water, while the submerged bulk represents subclinical, inapparent, mild, or unreported cases. This is important for understanding true disease burden, transmission dynamics, and designing surveillance — as seen with polio, tuberculosis, and COVID-19.
Reference: Park's Textbook of Preventive and Social Medicine, 27th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
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