An observational study finds that drinking green tea (exposure) is inversely associated with gastric cancer (OR = 0.65, 95% CI 0.48–0.88). Which aspect of Hill's criteria is BEST supported by this finding alone?
- A Consistency
- B Strength of association ✓
- C Temporality
- D Biological plausibility
Correct answer: B. Strength of association
Explanation
A single study establishes only the strength of association (OR = 0.65 with CI not crossing 1 = statistically significant inverse association). Consistency requires replication across multiple populations and study types. Temporality (exposure before disease) requires cohort or experimental data rather than a single case-control study. Biological plausibility requires external knowledge of mechanisms, not a study finding alone.
Reference: Park's Textbook of Preventive and Social Medicine, 27th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
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