A multicenter research group conducts a randomized controlled trial to evaluate the cardiovascular benefits of a novel medication in adults with a history of severe hypertriglyceridemia. A total of eligible participants are enrolled and assigned in a ratio to receive either the active medication or a visually identical placebo. Participants are followed closely for years, and the primary endpoint is the occurrence of a major adverse cardiovascular event (MACE). At the conclusion of the trial, the researchers compile the following data:
| Group | Total Participants | Developed MACE |
|---|---|---|
| Active Medication | ||
| Placebo |
Based on the provided data, what is the number of patients who need to be treated with the active medication for years to prevent one additional major adverse cardiovascular event?
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Answer
The correct value is .
The Number Needed to Treat (NNT) is the number of patients who must receive a specific intervention to prevent one additional adverse outcome. It is calculated by taking the reciprocal of the Absolute Risk Reduction (ARR). First, calculate the event rate in the control group: (). Next, calculate the event rate in the treatment group: (). The ARR is the difference between these two rates: . The inverse of () is . Therefore, patients must be treated to prevent one MACE.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Number Needed to Treat (NNT)
Estimated Time:1m 15s