Which of the following is NOT a prerequisite (Wilson-Jungner criterion) for a disease to be suitable for mass population screening?
- A The disease must be completely curable once detected ✓
- B The disease must have a recognisable latent or early symptomatic stage
- C There must be a suitable screening test with acceptable sensitivity and specificity
- D Treatment at an early stage should yield better outcomes than treatment at a later stage
Correct answer: A. The disease must be completely curable once detected
Explanation
Complete curability is NOT a Wilson-Jungner criterion for screening. The criterion requires that early treatment leads to better outcomes (e.g., reduced mortality, morbidity) compared to late treatment — not necessarily complete cure. Recognisable latent phase, acceptable test, cost-effectiveness, agreed treatment policy, and treatment advantage are all genuine criteria.
Reference: Park's Textbook of Preventive and Social Medicine, 27th ed.
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