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Activity Number:
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153
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Type:
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Topic Contributed
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Date/Time:
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Monday, August 3, 2009 : 10:30 AM to 12:20 PM
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Sponsor:
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Section on Statistical Education
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| Abstract - #303942 |
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Title:
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Statistical Challenges in Medical Research: What Consumers Need to Know
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Author(s):
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Ronald R. Gauch*+
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Companies:
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Marist College
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Address:
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21 Curry Lane, Hyde Park, NY, 12538,
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Keywords:
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Clinical trials ; Sampling ; Randomization ; Blinding ; Experimental Control ; Sample size
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Abstract:
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This paper explores the statistical features inherent in clinical trials that make it so difficult to come up with the right answers. No matter how skilled and diligent the research team, their trial may still produce the wrong conclusions. Consumers, healthcare professionals as well as the general public should be aware of the liabilities that threaten clinical investigations. In spite of the fear and trepidation usually associated with statistics, the issues discussed in this paper can be readily understood because they do not involve complex formulae or esoteric terminology. Facing up to the intrinsic handicaps of medical investigations can mitigate overly optimistic beliefs held by consumers and generate a greater appreciation for the critical role statistics plays in the design and execution of clinical trials.
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- The address information is for the authors that have a + after their name.
- Authors who are presenting talks have a * after their name.
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