Making numbers matter: present and future research in risk communication

摘要: OBJECTIVE: To summarize existing research on individual numeracy and methods for presenting risk information to patients. METHODS: We selectively retrieved articles from MEDLINE the Social Sciences Citation Index. RESULTS: Many Americans have low skills, a deficit that impedes effective health care. Approaches communication vary in current practice, but how risks are presented can significantly affect both patients' perceptions their knowledge. CONCLUSIONS: Adhering some basic principles patients improve understanding. However, different risk-communication may be needed individuals with high versus levels of numeracy. Language: en