1c) What were the common causes of morbidity found for both cold stress and heat stress?
Ans. The common causes of morbidity found for both cold stress and heat stress were the ambient temperature consisting of heat waves and cold spells. Geographical conditions play a vital role in determining ambient temperature. The intensity and duration of heat waves and cold waves are significant factors influencing morbidity.
2a) Using Table 1103, list one factor that you believe contributes to the trend in motor vehicle accidents from 1990-2009.
Ans. In the given table, it can be inferred that the number of motor vehicle accidents and accident deaths have decreased considerably. This may be attributed to increased public awareness pertaining to safety rules. This awareness has become effective due to efficient promotion and by enforcing rigid rules and penalties on the offenders.
2b) Using Table 1104, do you see any pattern to the rates? What method of data presentation would help you interpret this answer?
Ans. According to the given table, fatality rates have reduced by nearly 50% in most of the states. This indicates that the number of traffic accidents have reduced to a half in the past 20 years. A line graph would be a suitable method of data presentation by which we could analyze the decreasing trends of traffic fatalities. A bar chart may also be used alternatively.
References
Ye, X., et. al. (2012). Ambient temperature and morbidity: A review of epidemiological evidence. Environmental Health Perspectives, 120(1), 19-27.
Transportation. (2012). U.S Census Bureau, Statistical Abstract of the United States, 693.
