When scientific evidence is unavailable for evaluation, professional consensus can be used for developing criteria. Accountability mechanisms may be accreditation standards such as those from the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations or the National Committee for Quality Assurance. Report cards, such as those developed by the Health Care Financing Administration's release of hospital mortality data, is another framework for accountability. Meydani, Simin Nikbin, et al. In Vivo Immune Response in Healthy Elderly Subjects.
Evidence exists that altered states of immunity are associated with the aging process.
When the body's immune system is not fully functioning, the incidence of infectious and neoplastic diseases is higher. In addition, recovery periods are longer after illness. A decrease in DTH is associated with greater mortality. In addition, there is a decreased antibody response with a lowered immune function. Increase in production of prostaglandins is associated with age-related autoimmune, inflammatory, and neoplastic diseases.