Be able to relate scientific reports to your own personal health profile. Put information into perspective by asking yourself and your doctor how or if the data in a study relates to you. Know the Language . Learn about different types of studies and basic medical terms. Understand the Design of the Study .
Sound research includes a basis for comparison between variables.
Knowing the difference can put your mind at ease. Examine how many people and the type of people in the study. Some experts believe the best research uses at least 50 subjects. Evaluate how much of a substance was tested or caused a certain condition or disease. Imagine a fictitious study showing that eating 35 apples per day decreased risk of cancer.