Jessica S. Ancker|Yalini Senathirajah|Rita Kukafka|Justin Starren
Design Features of Graphs in Health Risk Communication: A Systematic Review
Columbia University|Marshfield Clinic|Columbia University|Marshfield Clinic|Columbia University|Marshfield Clinic|Columbia University|Marshfield Clinic
review describes recent experimental focus group research graphics method communication quantitative health risks studies discussed review assessed effect graphs quantitative reasoning others assessed effects behavior behavioral intentions still others assessed viewers likes dislikes graphical features improve accuracy quantitative reasoning appear differ features likely alter behavior intentions example graphs make parttowhole relationships available visually may help people attend relationship numerator number people affected hazard denominator entire population risk whereas graphs show numerator appear inflate perceived risk may induce riskaverse behavior viewers often preferred design features visual simplicity familiarity associated accurate quantitative judgments communicators assume graphics intuitive text many studies found patients interpretations graphics dependent upon expertise instruction potentially useful directions continuing research include interactions educational level numeracy successful ways communicate uncertainty risk