Final answer:
The risk difference for developing GERD between the group taking Aciphex (rabeprazole) and the group not taking it is 1.13%, with the PPI group showing a slightly higher risk. This small difference does not conclusively indicate that taking Aciphex reduces the risk for GERD, and more research is needed for a definitive answer.
Step-by-step explanation:
To calculate the risk difference for the development of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) between two groups, one can use the data provided from a study comparing those who took the proton-pump inhibitor (PPI) Aciphex (rabeprazole) and those who did not take a PPI. First, the incidence of GERD in each group needs to be determined. This can be done by dividing the number of patients who developed GERD by the total number of participants in that group.
For the PPI group: 6 out of 43 participants developed GERD, which is 6/43 or approximately 13.95%.
For the non-PPI group: 5 out of 39 participants developed GERD, which is 5/39 or approximately 12.82%.
The risk difference is calculated by subtracting the incidence rate of the non-PPI group from that of the PPI group. This yields 13.95% - 12.82% = 1.13%. A positive risk difference suggests that taking the PPI could be associated with a slightly higher risk of developing GERD, whereas a negative risk difference would suggest a reduced risk.
However, this study does not show a significant difference in the development of GERD between the two groups, and we cannot definitively conclude that taking Aciphex (rabeprazole) reduces the risk for GERD based solely on a risk difference of 1.13%. Additional research and statistical analysis would be necessary to establish a stronger causal relationship.