Hitting the (bio)mark part 2: analyzing, interpreting, and reporting biomarker data in cardiovascular research.

Abstract

Incorporating biomarkers into cardiovascular studies, including nursing research, is a common approach when identifying underlying mechanisms and providing targets for intervention. However, effective utilization of biomarker data demands careful consideration. In the analysis, interpretation, and reporting phase, there are many facets to consider, including non-normality of the data, normalization procedures, and potential confounding influences of other clinical data. Furthermore, as many studies focus on patient-reported outcomes, it is important that the analysis and interpretation of biomarkers in relation to patient-reported outcomes is rigorous and reproducible. In this article, part 2 of 2, we provide an overview of considerations for the analysis, interpretation, and reporting phases of biomarker studies. We also provide an example of these steps.