Question

The probability of flu symptoms for a person not receiving any treatment is 0.053. In a clinical trial of a common drug used to lower cholesterol, 57 of 1002 people treated experienced flu symptoms. Assuming the drug has no effect on the likelihood of flu symptoms, estimate the probability that at least 57 people experience flu symptoms. What do these results suggest about flu symptoms as an adverse reaction to the drug?

a) 0.053

b) 0.057

c) 0.943

d) 0.997

Answer 1

The probability of at least 57 people experiencing flu symptoms can be estimated using the binomial probability formula. The correct answer is d) 0.997, suggesting a high prevalence of flu symptoms as an adverse reaction to the drug.

Step-by-step explanation:

To estimate the probability that at least 57 people experience flu symptoms, we can use the binomial probability formula. Since the drug has no effect on the likelihood of flu symptoms, the probability remains the same as for a person not receiving any treatment, which is 0.053. The probability of at least 57 people experiencing flu symptoms can be calculated by summing the probabilities of exactly 57, 58, 59, and so on up to 1002. This can be done using a binomial calculator or by utilizing statistical software. The answer is approximately 0.997, so the correct option is d) 0.997.

These results suggest that flu symptoms are a common adverse reaction to the drug. Out of the 1002 people treated, 57 experiencing flu symptoms indicates a high prevalence of such symptoms. It is important for healthcare providers to monitor and manage these adverse reactions to ensure the safety and well-being of patients.