Making numbers matter: present and future research in risk communication.
OBJECTIVE
To summarize existing research on individual numeracy and methods for presenting risk information to patients.


METHODS
We selectively retrieved articles from MEDLINE and the Social Sciences Citation Index.


RESULTS
Many Americans have low numeracy skills, a deficit that impedes effective health care. Approaches to risk communication vary in current practice, but how risks are presented can significantly affect both patients' risk perceptions and their knowledge.


CONCLUSIONS
Adhering to some basic principles for presenting risk information to patients can improve understanding. However, different risk-communication methods may be needed for individuals with high versus low levels of numeracy.
Fagerlin
Angela
A
Ann Arbor VA HSR&D Center for Excellence, Division of General Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-0429, USA. fagerlin@umich.edu
Ubel
Peter A
PA
Smith
Dylan M
DM
Zikmund-Fisher
Brian J
BJ
D003657:Decision Making; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006296:Health Services; D006801:Humans