population attributable fraction
Also written as: PAF — Population Attributable Fraction
The proportion of disease incidence in a population that can be attributed to a specific risk factor.
Full Definition
Population attributable fraction (PAF) quantifies the public health impact of a risk factor by estimating what proportion of psychiatric disorder cases in a population could theoretically be prevented if the risk factor were eliminated. PAF combines information about both the strength of association between a risk factor and outcome (relative risk) and the prevalence of exposure to that risk factor in the population. This measure is crucial for priority-setting in mental health prevention programs, as it identifies risk factors that contribute most substantially to population disease burden, even if individual-level risks are modest.
Usage
Usage note: Interpret as the maximum possible prevention impact, assuming causal relationships and complete elimination of exposure.
In Context
- "The population attributable fraction for childhood trauma in adult depression was estimated at 18%." — preventive intervention study
- "PAF calculations guided prioritization of modifiable risk factors for population-level interventions." — public health strategy document