A priori postulated and real power in cluster randomized trials: mind the gap
نویسندگان
چکیده
BACKGROUND Cluster randomization design is increasingly used for the evaluation of health-care, screening or educational interventions. The intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) defines the clustering effect and be specified during planning. The aim of this work is to study the influence of the ICC on power in cluster randomized trials. METHODS Power contour graphs were drawn to illustrate the loss in power induced by an underestimation of the ICC when planning trials. We also derived the maximum achievable power given a specified ICC. RESULTS The magnitude of the ICC can have a major impact on power, and with low numbers of clusters, 80% power may not be achievable. CONCLUSION Underestimating the ICC during planning cluster randomized trials can lead to a seriously underpowered trial. Publication of a priori postulated and a posteriori estimated ICCs is necessary for a more objective reading: negative trial results may be the consequence of a loss of power due to a mis-specification of the ICC.
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عنوان ژورنال:
- BMC Medical Research Methodology
دوره 5 شماره
صفحات -
تاریخ انتشار 2005