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Number needed to treat — USMLE Step 3 MCQ

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ModeratePreventive Medicine, Epidemiology, BiostatisticsNumber needed to treatUSMLE Step 3

In a trial, stroke occurred in 8% of control patients and 4% of treated patients over 5 years. Adverse events were similar. A resident asks how many patients need treatment to prevent one stroke. Which of the following is the most likely explanation for this patient's findings?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: A25

Absolute risk reduction is 4 percentage points; number needed to treat is 1/0.04 = 25.

Reference: USMLE Step 3 biostatistics content outline