overdiagnosis

noun

over·​di·​ag·​no·​sis ˌō-vər-ˌdī-ig-ˈnō-səs How to pronounce overdiagnosis (audio)
-əg-
: the diagnosis of a condition or disease more often than it is actually present
overdiagnose
ˌō-vər-ˈdī-ig-ˌnōs How to pronounce overdiagnosis (audio)
-ˌnōz
-ˌdī-ig-ˈnōs
-ˈnōz
-əg-
transitive verb

Examples of overdiagnosis in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
In some cases, additional screenings can lead women to be diagnosed and treated for cancers that would never have bothered them, problems known as overdiagnosis and overtreatment. Liz Szabo, NBC News, 12 Oct. 2024 Hg – due to arm position – leading to overdiagnosis or overtreatment, in the form of a new prescription or dose modification. Jacqueline Howard, CNN, 7 Oct. 2024 While early screening can lead to the risk of overdiagnosis, understanding a child’s developmental needs can help guide families toward resources that address those needs sooner. Angelica P. Ahrens, The Conversation, 2 Oct. 2024 The prevailing dental economic model based on fee-for-service creates an environment of dental overdiagnosis and overtreatment. Beth Mole, Ars Technica, 7 May 2024 See all Example Sentences for overdiagnosis 

Word History

First Known Use

1971, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of overdiagnosis was in 1971

Dictionary Entries Near overdiagnosis

Cite this Entry

“Overdiagnosis.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/overdiagnosis. Accessed 1 Dec. 2024.

Medical Definition

overdiagnosis

noun
over·​di·​ag·​no·​sis -ˌdī-ig-ˈnō-səs, -əg- How to pronounce overdiagnosis (audio)
plural overdiagnoses -ˌsēz How to pronounce overdiagnosis (audio)
: the diagnosis of a condition or disease (as Lyme disease) more often than it is actually present
overdiagnose transitive verb
overdiagnosed; overdiagnosing
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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