They compared interventions to assess effectiveness in helping individuals or population groups modify their diets to consume more fruits and vegetables and less fats. They also looked for evidence on the efficacy of dietary interventions by population subgroup, particularly those defined by ethnicity and sex. And finally, they looked for evidence of cost-effectiveness. Few studies could be analyzed for efficacy according to population subgroup, and no studies met the EPC's review criteria on cost-effectiveness. The Goldman chest pain protocol has good sensitivity for acute myocardial infarction, but there is no evidence to show differences in hospitalization rate, length of stay, or estimated costs.
Serial measurements can greatly increase sensitivity while maintaining specificity.
Biomarkers cannot identify most patients with unstable angina. Diagnostic technologies such as echocardiography, sestamibi perfusion imaging, and stress ECG may have very good to excellent sensitivity in selected populations, but they have not been sufficiently studied. Efficacy and effectiveness of tocolytics to arrest uterine contractions. Efficacy and effectiveness of antibiotics to treat undiagnosed infections that might trigger preterm labor. Efficacy of home monitoring of uterine activity.