AIIMS November 2011 – MCQ 158

Direct standardization is used to compare the mortality rates between two countries. This is done because of difference in:
A. Causes of death
B. Denominators
C. Age distributions
D. Numerators

(Repeat question – AIIMS Nov 06 – AA q41)

Correct answer : C. Age distributions

Crude death rates when compared can give rise to wrong conclusions. Population A with more proportion of younger people will have a lower crude death rate compared to Population B which has more proportion of older people. But it does not mean that Population A is more healthy. This effect can be removed by using standardized populations.