Biostatistics: multivariable analysis of a binary outcome: practice question

A PSM question in the style of the NEET PG paper. Answer it first, then read why the right option is right and why each of the others is wrong.

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PSM · Biostatistics: multivariable analysis of a binary outcome

Sample item

A researcher wants to measure the independent association of smoking, alcohol use, body mass index and age with the presence or absence of hypertension, and to report adjusted odds ratios. Which technique is most suitable?

Original practice item, not a recalled exam question. Nothing here is recorded.

The answer and the reasoning

B. Multiple logistic regression

When the outcome is binary and several predictors must be adjusted for each other, multiple logistic regression is used and gives adjusted odds ratios. Linear regression needs a continuous outcome. ANOVA compares means across groups.

Option by option

  • A. Simple linear regression

    Simple linear regression has one predictor and cannot adjust for the others.

  • B. Multiple logistic regression (correct)

    Correct. Logistic regression models a binary outcome and yields adjusted odds ratios.

  • C. Multiple linear regression

    Multiple linear regression needs a continuous outcome such as blood pressure in mmHg.

  • D. One-way analysis of variance

    One-way ANOVA compares means of a continuous variable across groups and has no odds ratio.

Source note: Original NextPrep sample item — pending expert review. This item is original practice material awaiting independent expert review, so confirm important facts in a standard textbook.

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Questions about this PSM question

What is the answer to this PSM question?

The best answer is B, Multiple logistic regression. When the outcome is binary and several predictors must be adjusted for each other, multiple logistic regression is used and gives adjusted odds ratios.

Why is "Simple linear regression" not the answer?

Simple linear regression has one predictor and cannot adjust for the others.

Why is "Multiple linear regression" not the answer?

Multiple linear regression needs a continuous outcome such as blood pressure in mmHg.

Why is "One-way analysis of variance" not the answer?

One-way ANOVA compares means of a continuous variable across groups and has no odds ratio.

What concept does this question test?

It tests Biostatistics: multivariable analysis of a binary outcome in PSM. Linear regression needs a continuous outcome. ANOVA compares means across groups.

How hard is this question?

We tag it as an application question: it asks you to use a fact on a patient or a finding. The tag is our own editorial judgement, not an official difficulty rating, so read the reason for every option, not only the answer.

How should I study Biostatistics: multivariable analysis of a binary outcome?

Practise biostatistics with small calculations until sensitivity, predictive values and risk measures are automatic. Then use the flashcards and the other PSM questions on this site to test what stuck.

Is this a real NEET PG question?

No. It is an original practice item (editorial status: sample, version 1). NextPrep does not publish recalled or leaked questions, and independent faculty review of this item has not been completed yet, so confirm important facts in a standard textbook.