Where is the statistical analysis?
• Adam Jacobs, Director Dianthus Medical Limited, London SW19 3TZ Power et al conclude from their study of socioeconomic differences in height that inequalities in height have reduced as a consequence of change in the population socioeconomic structure. This conclusion is based on a reduction in the difference in mean height between the highest and lowest socioeconomic groups, and a reduction in the absolute value of the regression coefficient relating height and socioeconomic status. However, we are not told whether those changes in measures of inequality are statistically significant. Without that information, it is impossible to know whether Power et al’s conclusions are supported by their data, or are no more than simply a chance finding. Submit rapid responsePublished 22 July 2002 Where is the statistical analysis? • Adam Jacobs, Director Dianthus Medical Limited, London SW19 3TZ Power et al conclude from their study of socioeconomic differences in height that inequalities in heig
