MCAT Math Question 28: Answer and Explanation

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Test Information

Question: 28

13. A medical student attempting to impress her attending physician refers to a recent article that says that there is a statistically significant difference in pregnancy length with a new therapy. Which of the following is most likely to be a valid criticism of the article?

  • A. Medical students usually reference articles in the newest journals, which may be unreliable.
  • B. The effect didn't change patient outcomes, only a secondary measure.
  • C. There is a lack of internal validity in the results, despite significance.
  • D. Selection bias is inherent in the scientific process.

Correct Answer: B

Explanation:

Statistical significance is not the same as clinical significance. There are medications that increase the length of pregnancy in preterm labor, but some only do so for a few hours. Because this may not impact patient outcomes, it should not inform treatment decisions.

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