What is the function of the Number Needed to Treat (NNT) in clinical research?

The Number Needed to Treat (NNT) is a key metric used in clinical research that indicates how many patients need to be treated in order for one person to experience a beneficial outcome from the treatment. It provides a way to quantify the effectiveness of a therapeutic intervention. By calculating the NNT, clinicians can evaluate the practical impact of treatment options, making it easier to determine whether a particular intervention is worthwhile when considering the overall benefits against potential risks and costs.

When the NNT is low, it means that fewer patients need to be treated for one patient to see a benefit, which often signifies a more effective intervention. Conversely, a higher NNT indicates that more patients are needed to achieve one positive outcome, suggesting the treatment may be less effective.

This metric is particularly valuable for comparing different treatment options and helps in making informed decisions regarding patient care. It does not pertain to assessing surgical success rates, evaluating risk factors, or analyzing lifestyle changes, but specifically targets the effectiveness of medical treatments.