A professor states: "Cardiovascular disease causes the largest single fraction of deaths in the U.S., exceeding one-quarter of deaths." Which interpretation is most consistent with the lesson material?

• A. The statement is partially consistent; CVD causes about 15% of deaths but is not the largest single contributor to mortality.
• B. The statement is inconsistent because CVD causes less than 10% of deaths and ranks below infectious diseases in the U.S.
• C. The statement is inconsistent since CVD is only the leading cause worldwide but not the leading cause in the United States.
• D. The statement is consistent: CVD accounts for more than 30% of U.S. deaths, making it the leading single cause.

Answer: (D)