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Updated: Jun 3, 2026
05:37
An R-Based Landscape Validation of a Competing Risk Model
Published on: September 16, 2022
Using alternative statistical formats for presenting risks and risk reductions.
Elie A Akl1, Andrew D Oxman, Jeph Herrin
1Department of Medicine, State University of New York at Buffalo, ECMC CC-142, 462 Grider Street, Buffalo, NY, USA, 14215.
The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews
|March 18, 2011
Summary
Natural frequencies improve understanding of health risks compared to probabilities. Relative risk reduction (RRR) is more persuasive than absolute risk reduction (ARR) and number needed to treat (NNT), but may lead to misinterpretation.
Area of Science:
- Health communication
- Medical decision making
- Statistical literacy
Background:
- Effective communication of statistical information is crucial for evidence-based practice.
- Understanding health risks and treatment benefits influences health decisions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess how different statistical presentations of risks and risk reductions affect understanding, perception, and persuasiveness.
- To compare natural frequencies vs. probabilities and relative risk reduction (RRR) vs. absolute risk reduction (ARR) vs. number needed to treat (NNT).
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of randomized and non-randomized controlled studies.
- Included comparisons of risk presentation (frequencies vs. probabilities) and risk reduction (RRR vs. ARR vs. NNT).
- Data extraction, risk of bias assessment, and GRADE quality grading were performed.
Main Results:
- Natural frequencies were better understood than probabilities.
- Relative risk reduction (RRR) was perceived as larger and more persuasive than absolute risk reduction (ARR) and number needed to treat (NNT).
- No significant differences were found between health professionals and consumers; behavior was not assessed.
Conclusions:
- Natural frequencies likely enhance comprehension of statistical information.
- While RRR appears more persuasive, its potential for misinterpretation necessitates caution.
- Further research is needed to determine if RRR aids decisions aligned with personal values.
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