Final answer:
Ashkenazi Jews in the US may have a lower mortality rate for tuberculosis due to genetic factors, a strong emphasis on education and healthcare, and robust community support systems.
Step-by-step explanation:
The fact that Ashkenazi Jews living in the US have a lower mortality rate for tuberculosis than non-Jews is most likely because of a combination of factors including genetic predispositions, social behaviors, and healthcare practices. One significant factor could be historical genetic selection where mutations providing resistance to certain diseases were naturally selected in European populations, including Ashkenazi Jewish communities. These mutations may offer some protection against diseases like tuberculosis. Additionally, Ashkenazi Jewish communities often place a high value on education and healthcare, practices that can contribute to better disease management and overall health outcomes. Culturally, there is also an emphasis on community support, which can provide better caregiving and adherence to treatment regimens, potentially lowering mortality rates from diseases like tuberculosis.