Statistics for health professionals

Abstract

Statistics for health professionals Susan Shott, Philadelphia, 1990, WB Saunders, 432 pages, $29.95. Statistics for Health Professionals is a remarkable book. Written for the health professional, it goes beyond substituting medical examples into an ordinary statistics textbook. The reader is treated to a clear, concise list of the learning objectives at the beginning of the book and at the beginning of each chapter. The author has designed the early chapters for the statistically naive. From that background, the reader can select subjects of interest from the later chapters. The method of solving statistical problems is emphasized without extensive discussions of theory. Nevertheless, the textbook is suitable for a medical school biostatistics course. Abundant and helpful practice exercises appear after each chapter. To help with calculations, the author discusses the uses of the SCSS and SAS computer programs. Algorithms for the selection of appropriate statistical tests are provided and are helpful, especially for the occasional user. One of the appendixes thoughtfully instructs the reader regarding when and how to consult a professional statistician. For the benefit of clinician and statistician alike, this appendix should become part of the introduction in subsequent editions. How could such a well-organized, readable book be improved? The vascular surgeon needs familiarity with some statistical tests that were omitted. To support their conclusion, this reviewer conducted a “random” survey of four issues of this Journal and found 85 results of statistical tests, 35% of which were not included in Statistics for Health Professionals. A chapter on actuarial life-table analysis and Cox proportional hazards analysis would be welcomed by the vascular surgeon. Finally, the (presumably random) vacillation between masculine and feminine pronouns is distracting and could be easily avoided. These criticisms are truly minor when compared with the organization and overall value of this book. It can be used as a limited reference or as a working text for the student. The price is favorable, and many will find it an excellent addition to their personal libraries.