A study finds a correlation coefficient (r) of 0.82 between dietary fat intake and serum LDL. The coefficient of determination (r²) is approximately 0.67. What does r² = 0.67 indicate?
- A 67% of the variation in LDL is explained by dietary fat intake ✓
- B There is a 67% probability that dietary fat causes elevated LDL
- C LDL increases by 0.67 units for each unit increase in dietary fat
- D 67% of individuals with high fat intake will develop hyperlipidemia
Correct answer: A. 67% of the variation in LDL is explained by dietary fat intake
Explanation
The coefficient of determination (r²) represents the proportion of variance in the dependent variable (LDL) that is explained by the independent variable (dietary fat intake). An r² of 0.67 means 67% of the variability in LDL is accounted for by dietary fat. It does not imply causality, probability of disease, or a regression slope.
Reference: Park's Textbook of Preventive and Social Medicine, 27th ed.
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