RCT (Randomized Controlled Trial)

A randomized controlled trial (RCT) is a scientific study used to test the effectiveness of a new treatment or intervention. Participants are randomly assigned to either the group receiving the treatment or a control group, which might receive a placebo or standard care. This random assignment helps ensure the groups are similar at the start, reducing bias. Researchers then compare outcomes between the groups to determine if the treatment makes a real difference. RCTs are considered the gold standard for establishing cause-and-effect relationships in medical and scientific research.