Estimating Effect Size for Acupuncture in Cancer-Related Fatigue
Author Information
Author(s): Michael F Johnston, Ron D Hays, Ka-Kit Hui
Primary Institution: University of California, Los Ángeles
Hypothesis
Can evidence-based effect size estimation improve sample size calculations for acupuncture studies in cancer-related fatigue?
Conclusion
Evidence-based effect size estimation helps justify assumptions in light of empirical evidence and can lead to more realistic sample size calculations.
Supporting Evidence
- The study suggests that an adequately-powered phase III trial would require at least 101 subjects if a strong effect is assumed.
- Evidence-based effect size estimation can lead to more realistic sample size calculations.
- The study highlights the importance of justifying effect size assumptions in clinical trials.
Takeaway
This study shows how researchers can use existing data to better estimate how many people they need for a study on acupuncture helping tired cancer patients.
Methodology
The study used a systematic literature search to derive effect size estimates from existing studies on acupuncture and fatigue.
Potential Biases
Potential biases may arise from the differences in study designs and populations used in the literature.
Limitations
The study relies on existing literature, which may have variability in results and populations.
Participant Demographics
The studies included breast cancer survivors and other patient populations experiencing fatigue.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.003
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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