Topic: Sample Size

2 chapters across the catalog

Birthing Comrade
Episode 1406 15:30 - 19:20

1406: Birthing Comrade

Small Sample Sizes in Vaccine Booster Studies

Analysis of recent vaccine data reveals that the "burst of information" cited by major news outlets often relies on extremely small sample sizes, sometimes totaling only 100 people across three studies. Despite these limited numbers, media outlets like NPR continue to issue broad recommendations for immediate booster shots. The discrepancy between the limited data and the certainty of the public health messaging is highlighted.

Roscoe!
Episode 1028 49:16 - 51:34

1028: Roscoe!

Flawed Dark Chocolate Health Study with Small Sample Size

Mainstream media outlets reported on a Loma Linda University study claiming dark chocolate reduces stress and improves memory, but the study only involved five participants. The "n=5" sample size is highlighted as being statistically insignificant, yet the story was carried by national news organizations including ABC. The segment suggests the story may have been a native advertisement for the chocolate industry.