On the basis of findings related to elevated blood levels of cholester

On the basis of findings related to elevated blood levels of cholesterol, a researcher wanted to determine whether a new drug would notably lower the blood levels of cholesterol in otherwise healthy persons.

Which of the following studies would the researcher most likely use?
a.
Cross-sectional study
b.
Experimental study
c.
Prospective study
d.
Retrospective study

ESSAYBID ANSWER

ANS: B
Experimental design is used to test treatment and prevention strategies. Subjects are randomly assigned to the experimental group to obtain the new drug while the control group receives a placebo or alternative. The changes in blood cholesterol level would then be measured. A cross-sectional study examines relationships between potential causal factors and disease at a specific time. A prospective study monitors a group of disease-free individuals to determine if and when disease occurs. A retrospective study compares individuals with a particular condition or disease with those who do not have the disease.