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Published on: January 8, 2020
Advanced statistics: up with odds ratios! A case for odds ratios when outcomes are common
1Department of Biostatistics and Medical Informatics, University of Wisconsin, 610 Walnut Street, Madison, WI 53705, USA. cook@biostat.wisc.edu
Summary
This study argues that risk ratios, commonly used for treatment comparisons, can be misinterpreted. Odds ratios may be preferable, particularly when outcomes are frequent in clinical studies.
Area of Science:
- Biostatistics
- Clinical Trial Analysis
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Dichotomous outcomes in clinical studies are often summarized using risk ratios.
- Risk ratios are favored for their interpretability and alignment with biological mechanisms.
- The use of odds ratios has been discouraged due to misinterpretation and differences from risk ratios.
Purpose of the Study:
- To challenge the conventional preference for risk ratios in summarizing treatment effects.
- To advocate for the use of odds ratios in specific clinical study scenarios.
- To highlight potential misinterpretations associated with risk ratios.
Main Methods:
- The article presents a conceptual argument rather than empirical data.
- It analyzes the properties and interpretation of risk ratios and odds ratios.
- The focus is on the implications for studies with common outcomes.
Main Results:
- Risk ratios can be easily misinterpreted by researchers and clinicians.
- Odds ratios offer advantages in certain situations, especially when outcomes are common.
- The distinction between risk and odds ratios is crucial for accurate interpretation.
Conclusions:
- The widespread use of risk ratios may lead to systematic misinterpretations.
- Odds ratios should be reconsidered and potentially preferred for summarizing treatment effects in studies with frequent outcomes.
- Accurate statistical reporting is essential for evidence-based medicine.
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