Which of the following is currently considered the most rapidly growing source of disease in the United States?

• A. Genetic disorders
• B. Congenital diseases
• C. Nutritional deficiencies
• D. Emerging infectious diseases

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the definitions of each option. Genetic disorders are diseases caused by abnormalities in an individual's DNA. Congenital diseases are conditions present from birth, often due to genetic or environmental factors. Nutritional deficiencies result from inadequate intake or absorption of essential nutrients. Emerging infectious diseases are infections that have recently appeared within a population or whose incidence or geographic range is rapidly increasing.
2. Step 2: Recognize that the question asks for the most rapidly growing source of disease in the United States, which implies looking at trends in disease incidence over time rather than static prevalence.
3. Step 3: Consider epidemiological data and public health reports that track disease trends. Emerging infectious diseases often include new or re-emerging pathogens that spread quickly due to factors like globalization, environmental changes, and microbial evolution.
4. Step 4: Compare the growth rates of these disease categories. Genetic and congenital diseases tend to have relatively stable incidence rates, while nutritional deficiencies have generally decreased due to improved food availability and public health measures.
5. Step 5: Conclude that emerging infectious diseases are currently recognized as the most rapidly growing source of disease because they represent new threats that can spread quickly and cause outbreaks, unlike the other categories which are more stable or declining.