positive study

A study that has obtained statistically significant results, indicating that the intervention being studied probably has a beneficial effect.

Note: This term can generate confusion because it refers both to statistical significance and the direction of effect. Since studies often have many outcome indicators, the criteria defining a “positive” study are not always clear and, in the case of studies on a risk or given adverse effects, for example, positive studies are those that show a harmful effect.

Ant.: negative study