Editorial Commentary: The Power of Interpretation: Utilizing the P Value as a Spectrum, in Addition to Effect Size, Will Lead to Accurate Presentation of Results

Abstract

Statistics have helped develop evidence-based medicine. Comparing groups and rejecting (or not) a null hypothesis is a main principle of the scientific method. Many studies have demonstrated that drawing conclusions based on the statistical result of a dichotomic P value instead of a spectrum can mislead us to conclude that there is "no difference" between two groups, or two treatments. In addition to the P value, the utilization of effect size (magnitude of difference between studied groups), may help us obtain a better global understanding of the statement "no effect". Although statistical significance does not mean clinical significance, by learning to adequately interpret data, we can disclose transparent results and conclusions, as we ward off our own bias. After all, without appropriate interpretation, we may be blinded from the truth.