**Core Concept**
The introduction of a new test for early disease detection can impact the perceived prevalence and incidence of the disease. **Lead time bias** is a crucial concept here, where earlier detection makes it seem like the disease duration has increased, even if the outcome remains unchanged.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
Since the 1-year early detection does not affect the natural history of the disease, the overall survival rate or mortality from the disease will not change. However, because cases are now being detected earlier, the **apparent duration of disease** will increase. This means that for a given period, more cases will be counted as prevalent because they are being detected before they would have been without the test.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** This choice is incorrect because the introduction of the test does not inherently change the disease's progression or the patient's outcome.
**Option B:** This is incorrect because the test's introduction does not shorten the disease's duration; it merely detects it earlier.
**Option C:** This option is incorrect as the test does not alter the disease's natural history or its outcome.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
A key point to remember is that **lead time bias** can make it seem like new diagnostic tests or screening methods are more effective than they actually are, simply by lengthening the apparent duration of disease without changing the outcome.
**Correct Answer:** D. 5-year survival rate will appear to increase.
Free Medical MCQs Β· NEET PG Β· USMLE Β· AIIMS
Access thousands of free MCQs, ebooks and daily exams.
By signing in you agree to our Privacy Policy.