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Table 2 Definitions of Hill's Criteria

From: An epidemiological examination of the subluxation construct using Hill's criteria of causation

 

Criteria

Definition

1

Strength

The size of the risk as measured by appropriate tests.

2

Consistency

The association is consistent when results are replicated in studies in different settings using different methods.

3

Specificity

When a single putative cause produces a specific effect.

4

Temporal sequence

Exposure always precedes the outcome.

5

Dose response

An increasing level of exposure (in amount and/or time) increases the risk.

6

Experimental evidence

The condition can be altered (prevented or ameliorated) by an appropriate experimental regimen

7

Biologic plausibility

The association agrees with currently accepted understanding of pathobiological processes.

8

Coherence

The association should be compatible with existing theory and knowledge.

9

Analogy

A finding of analogous associations between similar factors and similar diseases.