randomisation

Definition

A statistical technique used in genetics to determine whether a specific factor causes a health outcome by using genetic variants as proxies for exposure.

Etymology

Derived from the English 'random,' which traces back to the Old French 'randon' meaning 'force' or 'impetuous speed.' The suffix '-isation' was added to denote the process of making something occur in an unpredictable or non-biased manner.

In the news

In this article, 'Mendelian randomisation' is used as a research method to clarify if loneliness directly causes poor health, helping researchers avoid errors that occur in traditional observational studies.

July: Loneliness strongly linked to poorer mental health and wellbeing | News and features

University of Bristol

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