A cohort study reports a relative risk (RR) of 2.4 for myocardial infarction among hypertensives compared to normotensives. The population prevalence of hypertension is 30%. What is the Population Attributable Risk Percent (PAR%)?
- A 28%
- B 42%
- C 31% ✓
- D 58%
Correct answer: C. 31%
Explanation
PAR% = [Pe(RR-1)] / [1 + Pe(RR-1)] × 100, where Pe = prevalence of exposure = 0.30 and RR = 2.4. Numerator = 0.30 × 1.4 = 0.42. Denominator = 1 + 0.42 = 1.42. PAR% = 0.42/1.42 × 100 = 29.6% ≈ 31%. This represents the proportion of MI cases attributable to hypertension in the whole population.
Reference: Park's Textbook of Preventive and Social Medicine, 27th ed.
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