Association of Clinical Research Professionals (ACRP) Certified Professional Practice Exam

True or False: Missing data points in a clinical trial may lead to bias.

1. True

2. False

3. It depends on the data

4. Only in Phase 1 trials

The correct answer is: True

Missing data points in a clinical trial can indeed lead to bias, and selecting true reflects an understanding of how data integrity is crucial for the validity of research results. When data are missing, it can distort the actual findings, ultimately affecting the conclusions drawn from the study. This bias arises because the reasons for data loss often relate to participants' outcomes or behaviors, potentially skewing results if those who drop out or have missing data differ significantly from those who complete the trial. For instance, if patients with poor outcomes are more likely to drop out or fail to report outcomes, the final analysis may show more favorable results than what actually occurred in the broader population. This introduces a systematic error that compromises the validity of the study’s findings when outcomes are assessed. Therefore, ensuring complete data collection and addressing any missing data through appropriate methods is vital in maintaining the integrity of clinical research.