Abstract

In risk assessment and decision-making, understanding both absolute risk and relative risk is crucial for accurately interpreting health data and guiding patient care. This paper explores the distinctions between absolute risk and relative risk, highlighting their respective roles in evaluating and communicating health outcomes. Absolute risk quantifies the probability of an event occurring in a specific population over a defined period, providing a concrete measure of individual risk. In contrast, relative risk compares the risk of an event between two different groups, offering insights into how risk factors or interventions alter risk levels in a comparative context.

The discussion integrates examples from clinical studies to illustrate how absolute risk and relative risk can be used together to provide a comprehensive understanding of health risks. Emphasis is placed on how each measure impacts clinical decision-making and public health recommendations. By clarifying these concepts, the paper aims to improve the application of risk assessment tools in clinical practice and enhance the effectiveness of health communication strategies. Understanding these risks helps clinicians and patients make more informed decisions regarding preventive measures, treatments, and lifestyle changes.