A researcher measures systolic blood pressure in 15 patients before and after a 6-week exercise programme. The mean reduction is 8 mmHg. Which statistical test is most appropriate to determine whether this reduction is statistically significant?

• A Independent samples t-test
• B One-way ANOVA
• C Chi-square test
• D Paired t-test ✓

Explanation

The same subjects are measured twice (before and after), creating paired or dependent observations. The paired t-test accounts for within-subject correlation and is the correct choice. Independent t-test is for two separate groups. Chi-square tests association between categorical variables. ANOVA compares means across three or more independent groups.

Reference: Park's Textbook of Preventive and Social Medicine, 26th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

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