title: Regression to the mean: what it is and how to deal with it.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  Regression to the mean (RTM) is a statistical phenomenon that can make natural variation in repeated data look like real change. It happens when unusually large or small measurements tend to be followed by measurements that are closer to the mean.
  
  
  METHODS
  We give some examples of the phenomenon, and discuss methods to overcome it at the design and analysis stages of a study.
  
  
  RESULTS
  The effect of RTM in a sample becomes more noticeable with increasing measurement error and when follow-up measurements are only examined on a sub-sample selected using a baseline value.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  RTM is a ubiquitous phenomenon in repeated data and should always be considered as a possible cause of an observed change. Its effect can be alleviated through better study design and use of suitable statistical methods.
authors.affiliation: School of Population Health, The University of Queensland, Herston, Brisbane, QLD 4006, Australia. a.barnett@uq.edu.au
authors.forename: Adrian G
authors.initials: AG
authors.lastname: Barnett
authors.forename: Jolieke C
authors.initials: JC
authors.lastname: van der Pols
authors.forename: Annette J
authors.initials: AJ
authors.lastname: Dobson
mesh_terms: D008076:Cholesterol, HDL / Q000097:blood; D002986:Clinical Trials as Topic / Q000379:methods; D003627:Data Interpretation, Statistical; D006801:Humans; D012044:Regression Analysis; D012107:Research Design; D012878:Skin Neoplasms / Q000517:prevention & control
chemical_list: D008076:Cholesterol, HDL