I'm no statistician and would welcome comments from one, but any blanket
statement that a 5% change is statistically irrelevant is erroneous.  It
depends on the size and type of the study, and also on the subject (small
changes mean more in precisely quantified fields like, oh, chemistry).
Interpretation of such a result should also take into consideration how
many other studies are out there on the same subject and what *their*
results are.  Many studies consistently showing even a small change *in the
same direction* add up.
        A well-designed study followed by a good multivariate analysis should be
able to tease out how much of an effect there was from genetics and home
environment.  Maybe this study didn't, but it can be done and it's time
someone did it instead of saying "oh well, confounding factors"!
        Doesn't it just kill you when people say "smart well-educated thoughtful
women are more likely to choose this option, *so* we may safely conclude
that it's all baloney"???????  Hello?  Anyone home?

Elise
Bath, NH

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