In men with spinal cord injuries, larger waist sizes are linked to higher heart disease risk scores, older age, higher cholesterol, higher blood pressure, and smoking.
Scientific Claim
In men with chronic spinal cord injury, waist circumference is positively associated with Framingham risk score (r²=0.12, P=0.04), age (r²=0.3, P<0.001), total cholesterol (r²=0.14, P=0.03), systolic blood pressure (r²=0.11, P=0.04), and smoking status (r²=0.10, P=0.05).
Original Statement
“WC was positively correlated with four CVD risk factors: age (r2 = 0.3, P < 0.001), TC (r2 = 0.14, P = 0.03), SBP (r2 = 0.11, P = 0.04), and smoking status (r2 = 0.10, P = 0.05). It was also positively correlated with the Framingham risk score (r2 = 0.12, P = 0.04).”
Evidence Quality Assessment
Claim Status
appropriately stated
Study Design Support
Design supports claim
Appropriate Language Strength
association
Can only show association/correlation
Assessment Explanation
The study is observational and demonstrates associations, so using 'associated with' is appropriate. No causation is claimed.