[What are the propensity scores?]

Rev Med Chil. 2016 Mar;144(3):364-70. doi: 10.4067/S0034-98872016000300012.
[Article in Spanish]

Abstract

Medical research is constantly looking for causality. Among study designs, randomized controlled trials are the most reliable way to estimate causal effects but are not always feasible. When this is the case, observational studies must be performed but this type of design unavoidably implies bias. Propensity scores, defined as the probability to receive a treatment conditional to a set of covariables allows to overcome confusion bias when searching for causal effects.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Bias
  • Causality*
  • Humans
  • Multivariate Analysis
  • Observational Studies as Topic*
  • Propensity Score*
  • Reference Standards