Which public health milestone, achieved in the 20th century, led to the worldwide eradication of a deadly disease?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: The eradication of smallpox. This milestone was achieved in the 20th century through a global vaccination campaign led by the World Health Organization. Smallpox is the only disease to have been eradicated worldwide, which was confirmed in 1980. The measles vaccine (choice A) has been significant but has not led to the eradication of measles. The global polio vaccination program (choice C) has made progress in reducing polio cases but has not yet achieved global eradication. The introduction of HIV/AIDS prevention programs (choice D) has been vital in managing the spread of HIV/AIDS but has not led to eradication.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: The World Health Organization (WHO). Founded in 1948, WHO is a specialized agency of the United Nations responsible for international public health. It coordinates global health efforts, sets standards and guidelines, provides technical assistance, and conducts research to improve health worldwide. The other choices are incorrect because: A: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is a U.S.-based agency focused on disease control within the country. C: The National Institutes of Health (NIH) is a U.S. agency primarily focused on biomedical and health research. D: The World Bank Health Initiative is not an organization established in 1948 and does not have a primary focus on improving global health standards.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: The cholera outbreak of 1854. This event, led by Dr. John Snow, showed the significance of public health surveillance by mapping cases to identify the source (contaminated water pump). This led to the implementation of preventive measures. Penicillin (A) revolutionized treatment but did not focus on prevention. The polio epidemic (C) raised awareness for vaccination but not surveillance. The 1918 Spanish Flu pandemic (D) emphasized the need for preparedness but did not directly highlight surveillance's preventive role.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Florence Nightingale. She is known for pioneering modern nursing practices and establishing hospital sanitation standards during the Crimean War. Nightingale's emphasis on hygiene, proper nutrition, and patient care revolutionized healthcare. Mary Mallon (B) was a cook linked to typhoid outbreaks, not a public health figure. Elizabeth Blackwell (C) was the first female physician in the US. Lillian Wald (D) was a nurse and social reformer but not primarily known for hospital sanitation.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C, the Medicare and Medicaid Act. This legislation, passed in the 1960s, specifically expanded healthcare access for the elderly in the United States by establishing the Medicare program. Medicare provides health insurance for individuals aged 65 and older. Medicaid, also part of this act, provides healthcare coverage for low-income individuals. The other choices are incorrect because: A: The Medicaid Act primarily focuses on providing healthcare coverage for low-income individuals, not specifically the elderly. B: The Social Security Act established social security benefits, not healthcare access for the elderly. D: The National Health Service Act is a UK legislation and not related to expanding healthcare access for the elderly in the US.