Propensity Score

A propensity score is a statistical tool used to help compare groups in studies, especially when random assignment isn't possible. It estimates the likelihood that a person would receive a particular treatment or exposure based on their characteristics, like age, health, or lifestyle. By matching or grouping individuals with similar scores, researchers can make fair comparisons between those who received the treatment and those who did not, reducing bias. This helps in understanding the true effect of an intervention, mimicking the balance achieved in randomized experiments.