A researcher uses propensity score matching in an observational study comparing two surgical techniques. The primary purpose of propensity score matching is to:

• A Increase the sample size of the study
• B Eliminate selection bias due to non-response
• C Control for unknown (unmeasured) confounders
• D Balance measured confounders between treatment groups to approximate randomisation ✓

Explanation

Propensity score is the probability of receiving the treatment given observed covariates. Matching on this score balances measured covariates between groups, mimicking randomisation for those variables. It cannot control unmeasured/unknown confounders — a key limitation distinguishing it from a true RCT. It does not address non-response bias or increase sample size.

Reference: Park's Textbook of Preventive and Social Medicine, 27th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

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