Lead-time bias in screening studies occurs because:

A More people are screened

B Earlier detection appears to prolong survival even if the disease course is unchanged

C Treatment is better

D Follow-up is longer

✓ Correct Answer: Option B

Lead-time bias: screening detects disease earlier → survival time measured from diagnosis appears longer even without actual life extension. Overcome by measuring mortality rates, not survival time.

💡 Why is B) the correct answer?

The correct answer to the question "Lead-time bias in screening studies occurs because:" is Option B: Earlier detection appears to prolong survival even if the disease course is unchanged.

The other options — A) More people are screened, C) Treatment is better, D) Follow-up is longer — are incorrect for this USMLE Exam Prep question. As explained above: Lead-time bias: screening detects disease earlier → survival time measured from diagnosis appears longer even without actual life extension. Overcome by measuring mortality rates, not survival time.

📚 About This USMLE Exam Prep Practice Question

This 3-level USMLE Exam Prep question from the Step 3 - Clinical Practice topic is part of BrainForge Quiz's free exam preparation library. Each question includes the correct answer and a detailed explanation to help you understand the underlying concept, not just memorize the answer.

How to use this page: Read the question above, consider all four options (A through D), then check the highlighted correct answer and explanation. For active timed practice, start a free USMLE Exam Prep practice test or use flashcards for spaced repetition review.

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Lead-time bias in screening studies occurs because:

✓ Correct Answer: Option B

📚 About This USMLE Exam Prep Practice Question

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