Which is true about RR values when describing a protective effect for a negative outcome?

Prepare effectively for your Cohort Studies Test. Utilize flashcards and multiple-choice questions, complete with hints and explanations, to boost your confidence. Achieve exam success with thorough practice and understanding!

Multiple Choice

Which is true about RR values when describing a protective effect for a negative outcome?

Explanation:
Relative risk compares the risk in the exposed group to the risk in the unexposed. For a negative outcome, a protective effect means the exposed group has fewer events, so the relative risk is less than 1. That is why a value below 1 indicates decreased risk in the exposed group. If the RR is greater than 1, it signals higher risk with exposure. If RR equals 1, there’s no difference in risk, meaning no protective effect. Relative risk does inform about protection; it can also show how big the protection is (e.g., an RR of 0.5 means risk is halved).

Relative risk compares the risk in the exposed group to the risk in the unexposed. For a negative outcome, a protective effect means the exposed group has fewer events, so the relative risk is less than 1. That is why a value below 1 indicates decreased risk in the exposed group. If the RR is greater than 1, it signals higher risk with exposure. If RR equals 1, there’s no difference in risk, meaning no protective effect. Relative risk does inform about protection; it can also show how big the protection is (e.g., an RR of 0.5 means risk is halved).

Subscribe

Get the latest from Passetra

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy