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prevalence

noun

/ˈprɛv ə ləns/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of prevalence

The frequency, extent, or predominance of a particular condition, phenomenon, or characteristic within a specific population, area, or context.
"The prevalence of smartphones in society has revolutionized communication."

Detailed meaning of prevalence

It is a measure of how common or widespread something is, often expressed as a proportion or percentage. Prevalence provides insight into the occurrence or presence of a specific factor or condition relative to the total population or a specific subgroup. It is frequently used in fields such as epidemiology, public health, and social sciences to study the distribution and impact of diseases, behaviors, beliefs, or social issues. The concept of prevalence helps researchers, policymakers, and practitioners understand the scope and magnitude of various phenomena, identify trends, and allocate resources accordingly. By examining prevalence rates, experts can assess the burden of a condition or the scale of a problem, informing decision-making processes aimed at prevention, intervention, or resource allocation.

Example sentences containing prevalence

1. The prevalence of obesity in the US has alarmed public health officials.
2. Pollen prevalence spikes in spring, causing allergy issues for many.
3. In rural areas, the prevalence of poverty is often understated.
4. Studies show the prevalence of anxiety is rising among teens.
5. The prevalence of tech jobs has grown in the Pacific Northwest.
6. Aging increases the prevalence of chronic illnesses in adults.

History and etymology of prevalence

The noun 'prevalence' has its etymological roots in the Latin word 'praevalentia,' which is derived from 'praevalere,' meaning 'to be strong' or 'to prevail.' In Latin, 'praevalentia' referred to the state of being strong or predominant. As this concept transitioned into Old French as 'prevalence,' and later into Middle English, it retained its fundamental meaning of describing the frequency, extent, or predominance of a particular condition, phenomenon, or characteristic within a specific population, area, or context. The etymology of 'prevalence' underscores the idea of something having a strong or dominant presence, emphasizing its role in quantifying the extent or prominence of various elements within a given setting or group.

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Further usage examples of prevalence

1. In the arts district, the prevalence of murals is remarkable.
2. The prevalence of fast food chains in America is notable.
3. COVID-19's prevalence forced a worldwide shift to remote work.
4. The prevalence of electric cars is increasing globally.
5. In tropical areas, the prevalence of mosquito-borne diseases rises.
6. The prevalence of English as a second language is growing.
7. Urban areas note a higher prevalence of air pollution.
8. The prevalence of online learning tools has skyrocketed recently.
9. The prevalence of mental health awareness is increasing.
10. Forests face threats due to the prevalence of illegal logging.
11. The prevalence of smartphones among teens is nearly universal.
12. Desert regions have a high prevalence of solar energy farms.
13. The prevalence of single-use plastics is a global concern.
14. The study found a high prevalence of obesity among children in urban areas.
15. The survey revealed the prevalence of mental health issues in the adult population.
16. The prevalence of online shopping has increased significantly in recent years.
17. The research highlighted the prevalence of bullying in schools.
18. The report discussed the prevalence of drug abuse among teenagers.
19. The prevalence of poverty in the region called for urgent social interventions.
20. The study aimed to determine the prevalence of diabetes in the elderly population.
21. The prevalence of social media usage has transformed the way people connect and interact.
22. The campaign focused on raising awareness about the prevalence of domestic violence.
23. The study examined the prevalence of sleep disorders in the general population.
24. The report shed light on the prevalence of gender inequality in the workplace.