Thus, the researchers concluded that environmental factors were part of the overall equation, determined by comparing the amount of phthalates in those girls who live close to urban areas with factories that manufacture products containing phthalates. One other finding drawn from this sample group was that the levels of phthalates "were significantly higher than the average levels" determined by the CDC (Lee, 2009, Internet).
With the second group of four hundred, the researchers produced similar findings, even though this group preceded the first by some ten years, an indication that phthalates have been in the environment for at least this length of time. Also, via utilizing the one-way ANOVA model, the researchers discovered a correlation between phthalates and IQ which was lower in those girls with heavy exposure to the chemical. However, the researchers admit that this possible link may be simply "cause and effect or an accidental finding" (Lee, 2009, Internet). Nonetheless, both of these studies on the first and second groups of girls clearly indicates the frequency of phthalates, for it was discovered in the urine of both sampling groups despite being separated...
Once this is completed, the researchers will then presumably utilize some form of linear regression which is used to analyze variables in order to create a model based on the data and findings in the shape of a mathematical equation.
As to the appropriateness of the findings related to the two sampling groups, it is clear that children, both male and female, should restrict their exposure to phthalates and similar chemicals that have been linked to obesity and certain physiological disorders. As Lee relates in her article, state and federal agencies should devise specific strategies aimed at either reducing exposure or reducing the amount of phthalates found in common pliable plastic products.
Certainly, the findings brought to light by these studies will undoubtedly serve as the foundations for future studies, preferably carried out via the one-way ANOVA model.
REFERENCES
Famoye, Felix and Carl Lee. (2009). "Statistical Procedures." Accessed from http://calcnet.mth.cmich.edu/org/spss/StaProc.htm.
Lee, Jennifer B. (April 17, 2009). Child obesity is linked to chemicals in plastics. The New
York Times. Internet. May 21, 2009. Accessed from http://cityroom.blogs.nytimes.com
/2009/04/17/child-obesity-is-linked-to-chemicals-in-plastics/?hp.
