Investigators want to assess the accuracy of self-reported smoking status. Parti

Question

Investigators want to assess the accuracy of self-reported smoking status. Participants are asked whether they currently smoke or not. In addition, laboratory tests are performed on hair samples to determine presence or absence of nicotine. The laboratory assessment is considered the gold standard, or truth about nicotine. The data follows:

Nicotine Absent

Nicotine Present

Self-Reported Non-Smoker

82

14

Self-Reported Smoker

12

52

a. What is the sensitivity of self-reported smoking status? (5 points)

Sensitivity:

b. What is the specificity of self-reported smoking status? (5 points)

Specificity

c. Summarize the data found in this case study. (15 points)

    Please be sure to include the following:

1) Describe why the laboratory standard is considered the gold standard.

2) Imagine you are writing a brief synopsis of this case study. In 2-3 paragraphs, discuss the following:

a) Purpose of the study.

b) Participants of the study.

c) Why was the study conducted?

d) Based on the data provided and your biostatistical analysis, quantify and propose solutions to support public and populations-based health challenges.

Synopsis:

Nicotine Absent

Nicotine Present

Self-Reported Non-Smoker

82

14

Self-Reported Smoker

12

52

Explanation / Answer

a. The sensitivity of self-reported smoking status is

Sensitivity(TPR) : = number of true positive/number of positive samples

                          = 52/(52+12) =0.8125

b. The specificity of self-reported smoking status is

specificity (SPC) = number of true negative/number of negative samples

                         = 82/(82+14) =0.8541

c.

1. I have observed the term "gold standard" in quotes more times than not, so I take it to mean something that is highly subjective. Randomized control trials are the only designs that provide "strong evidence" of effectiveness. Thus they have been dubbed the "gold standard".

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