Question

Investigators were conducting a study regarding the effects of water pollution and peptic ulcer disease.-A population of 9,000 men and women, aged 45, were examined on January 1, 1985.-Of these people, 6,000 EXPOSED to toxins in the local water supply and 3,000 were not.-At the time of this exam, 90 cases of peptic ulcer disease were discovered; 60 of these cases were among those exposed to toxins in their local water.-All the people at the initial exam who were free from peptic ulcer disease were followed with repeat exams over the following year. This study revealed 268 new cases in the total group; of these, 238 cases were among those exposed to toxins in their local water.

Calculate the INCIDENCE RATE per 1,000 people of peptic ulcer disease

Answer 1

Scientists doubted bacteria could cause peptic ulcers due to the stomach's acidity. Correct diagnosis between bacterial infection and intoxication influences treatment, like using antibiotics for H. pylori-caused ulcers.

Step-by-step explanation:

Scientists initially thought it was unlikely that a bacterium caused peptic ulcers because it was believed that the highly acidic environment of the stomach could not support the survival of bacteria. The treatment approach at the time focused on bland diets and antacids, which did little to address the underlying infection.

Knowing whether a particular illness is caused by a bacterium or a toxin is crucial for treatment, as bacterial infections require antibiotics, whereas intoxications might require other treatments such as toxin binders or supportive care. For instance, Helicobacter pylori, a bacterium that causes most peptic ulcers, is treated with antibiotics in combination with acid-reducing medication.