Questions: Hospital admissions: The following frequency distribution presents the five most frequent reasons for hospital admissions in U.S. community hospitals in a recent year. Reason Frequency (in thousands) Congestive heart failure 887 Coronary atherosclerosis 1372 Heart attack 552 Infant birth 4152 Pneumonia 1136

To analyze the frequency distribution of hospital admissions in U.S. community hospitals, we can organize the data into a table and discuss the implications of these statistics.

| Reason | Frequency (in thousands) | |---------------------------|--------------------------| | Congestive heart failure | 887 | | Coronary atherosclerosis | 1372 | | Heart attack | 552 | | Infant birth | 4152 | | Pneumonia | 1136 |

1. Infant Birth:

   • Frequency: 4152 thousand
   • Explanation: Infant birth is the most common reason for hospital admissions, which is expected as childbirth is a routine and necessary medical procedure. This high frequency reflects the natural and ongoing need for maternity services in hospitals.

2. Coronary Atherosclerosis:

   • Frequency: 1372 thousand
   • Explanation: This condition involves the hardening and narrowing of the arteries due to plaque buildup, which can lead to serious cardiovascular issues. The high frequency indicates a significant burden of cardiovascular diseases in the population, likely influenced by factors such as diet, lifestyle, and genetics.

3. Pneumonia:

   • Frequency: 1136 thousand
   • Explanation: Pneumonia is a common respiratory infection that can be severe, especially in vulnerable populations like the elderly and those with compromised immune systems. The frequency suggests a substantial impact on public health, necessitating effective prevention and treatment strategies.

4. Congestive Heart Failure:

   • Frequency: 887 thousand
   • Explanation: This condition occurs when the heart is unable to pump blood effectively, leading to symptoms like shortness of breath and fluid retention. The frequency highlights the prevalence of chronic heart conditions and the need for ongoing management and care.

5. Heart Attack:

   • Frequency: 552 thousand
   • Explanation: A heart attack, or myocardial infarction, is a medical emergency that occurs when blood flow to the heart is blocked. While less frequent than other conditions listed, it remains a critical health issue requiring immediate attention and intervention.

The data provides insight into the most common reasons for hospital admissions, highlighting the importance of maternal health services and the significant impact of cardiovascular and respiratory conditions on the healthcare system. Addressing these health issues involves a combination of preventive measures, public health initiatives, and effective medical treatments.