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User's guide to correlation coefficients
1Marmara University School of Medicine, Department of Emergency Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey.
Turkish Journal of Emergency Medicine
|September 8, 2018
Summary
Researchers often use subjective terms like "good" or "strong" to describe correlation coefficients. This study emphasizes the need for explicit reporting of correlation strength and direction in medical manuscripts for clarity.
Area of Science:
- Medical Statistics
- Biostatistics
- Research Methodology
Background:
- Correlation coefficients are frequently used in medical research to describe relationships between variables.
- Current terminology for correlation strength (e.g., 'good,' 'strong,' 'weak') lacks standardization.
- Inconsistent naming practices can lead to misinterpretation of statistical findings.
Purpose of the Study:
- To clarify the use and interpretation of correlation coefficients in medical manuscripts.
- To standardize the reporting of correlation strength and direction.
- To provide guidance for medical researchers on best practices for presenting correlation data.
Main Methods:
- Review of common correlation coefficients used in medical literature.
- Analysis of current naming conventions for correlation strength.
- Synthesis of recommendations for clear and consistent reporting.
Main Results:
- Identified significant variability in how correlation coefficient strength is described.
- Highlighted the ambiguity arising from subjective descriptors.
- Emphasized the necessity of reporting both the correlation coefficient value and its strength/direction.
Conclusions:
- Explicitly reporting the strength and direction of correlation coefficients is crucial for accurate interpretation in medical research.
- Standardized reporting practices will enhance the clarity and reproducibility of medical studies.
- Adoption of clear guidelines will improve communication of statistical relationships among medical professionals.