Refer to the information provided in Scenario 36.2 below to answer the question(s) that follow.
SCENARIO 36.2: A survey of 1,000 people in Austin, Texas (population 900,000) found that those who have chosen to eat organic produce for at least the past 5 years have experienced fewer serious medical issues than those who have not elected to eat organic produce. Therefore, the conclusion was made that eating organic produce helps prevent people from experiencing serious medical problems.
-Refer to Scenario 36.1. Which of the following statements pertaining to the scenario is the most accurate with respect to selection bias?
A) The survey exhibits selection bias in that only 1,000 people were surveyed in a city with a population of 900,000).
B) The survey exhibits selection bias in that the 5-year time frame used to gauge serious medical issues is not long enough.
C) The conclusion exhibits selection bias in that there may be other factors, such as those who eat organic produce also exercise on a more regular basis, that could account for fewer serious medical problems.
D) All of the above are correct.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The survey itself does not exhibit selection bias as it is a random sample of 1,000 people. However, the conclusion drawn from the survey exhibits selection bias by not accounting for other factors that could contribute to fewer serious medical problems in those who eat organic produce. Therefore, choice C is the most accurate statement with respect to selection bias.

Refer to the Information Provided in Scenario 36