Table 2 Comparison of number needed to treat (NNT) to prevent one death. Smoking cessation medication is usually used for 3–6 months, while statins or antihypertensive medication might be used throughout life
NNT comparison | ||
|---|---|---|
Intervention | Outcome | NNT |
Smoking cessation behavioural support plus | ||
- NRT | Long-term quitter/premature death | 23/46 |
- Bupropion | Long-term quitter/premature death | 18/36 |
- Varenicline | Long-term quitter /premature death | 10/20 |
Statins as primary prevention | Prevent one death over 5 years | 107 |
Antihypertensive treatment for mild hypertension | Prevent one stroke or MI death over 1 year | 700 |
Screening for cervical cancer | Prevent one death over 10 years | 1140 |
