SBA

Question 1

The following figure refers to the first question on this page: Reproduced with permission from Tang T et al. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2012;(5):CD003053 This analysis above is taken from a meta-analysis of ovulation rates in women with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) taking metformin compared with clomifene ovulation induction therapy. Subgroup analysis was also carried out using a cut-off BMI level of 30 kg/m2.

Which statement of the following best describes the above findings?

Metformin is equally as effective as clomifene in the obese group (BMI > 30)

Metformin is less effective than clomifene in the non-obese group (BMI <30)

Metformin is less effective than clomifene in the obese group (BMI >30)

Metformin is more effective than clomifene in the non-obese group (BMI < 30)

Metformin is more effective than clomifene in the obese group (BMI >30) Correct

Answer 1

The correct answer is that metformin is less effective than clomifene in the obese group (BMI >30). Metformin is less effective than clomifene in the obese group (BMI >30 kg/m2) as the OR = 0.43 (95% CI 0.36–0.51) in favour of clomiphene. See Tang T, Lord JM, Norman RJ, Yasmin E, Balen AH. Insulin-sensitising drugs (metformin, rosiglitazone, pioglitazone, D-chiro-inositol) for women with polycystic ovary syndrome, oligo amenorrhoea and subfertility. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2012;(5):CD003053. Correct interpretation of statistics is essential in modern clinical practice. This question aims to assess your ability to interpret a Forest plot.