Final answer:
The statement is true; advances in clean water, housing, and food safety have significantly improved health and increased life expectancy in the US.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement that improvements in clean water, housing, and food safety are among the most important advances that have improved health in the last century in the US is true. These advances played crucial roles in extending life expectancy.
Firstly, the development of systems for providing clean water and the disposal of human waste was instrumental in reducing the transmission of many diseases. Such improvements dramatically decreased instances of waterborne illnesses like cholera and typhoid fever.
Secondly, enhancements in housing and sanitation, including the invention of flush toilets and the availability of clean running water in homes, significantly increased the cleanliness and health conditions of the general population.
Finally, rigorous standards and practices in food safety reduced the spread of foodborne diseases. This was complemented by public health initiatives like vaccination programs and the introduction of antibiotics, which further combated infectious diseases.