correlational
Analysis v1
59
Pro
0
Against

The pattern where both very low and very high body mass index increase death risk in heart disease patients holds true regardless of whether they smoke, are physically active, or have different education levels.

Scientific Claim

The U-shaped association between body mass index and mortality risk persists across subgroups of smoking status, physical activity level, and educational attainment in patients with coronary artery disease.

Original Statement

U-shaped associations were found in most subgroups, associations were moderately modified by physical activity, smoking and educational level.

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, so causal language is inappropriate; 'associated with' correctly reflects the correlational nature of the findings.

Evidence from Studies