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Intention-to-treat analysis — USMLE Step 3 MCQ

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HardPreventive Medicine, Epidemiology, BiostatisticsIntention-to-treat analysisUSMLE Step 3

In a randomized trial of a new antihypertensive medication, 18% of participants discontinue the assigned medication. Investigators analyze participants in their original assigned groups rather than by medication actually taken. Which of the following is the most likely explanation for this patient's findings?

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Correct answer: E — Preservation of benefits of randomization

Intention-to-treat analysis maintains comparability created by randomization and reflects pragmatic effectiveness.

Reference: USMLE Step 3 biostatistics and population health content outline: https://www.usmle.org/exam-resources/step-3-materials/step-3-content-outline-and-specifications