Tutorial on Methods to Adjust for Confounding Variable in Medical Research

Muhammad  Ajmal Dina; Farzan  Madidadizadeh; Anam  Arshed

doi:10.18502/jchr.v14i12.18757

Muhammad Ajmal Dina Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
Farzan Madidadizadeh Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
Anam Arshed Rahbar Medical and Dental College, Lahore Pakistan

DOI: https://doi.org/10.18502/jchr.v14i12.18757

Keywords: Confounding variable, Adjustment, Statistical methods, Matching, stratification

Abstract

Background: Confounders can distort the actual connection between exposure and outcome, resulting in skewed results. In research, it is essential to account for confounding variables to preserve the validity of causal inferences.

Methods: In this narrative review study, all statistical methods for adjusting confounding variable such as standardization, propensity score, stratification, restriction, statistical model for control, matching, randomization were reviewed.

Results: The five most important methods were reviewed.

Conclusion: Adequate adjustment improves the internal validity of findings and elucidates the relationships among variables, underscoring the importance of a comprehensive analysis of confounding for trustworthy research results.