Dr. Lisa Wang argues that regular meditation practice reduces blood pressure in patients with hypertension. She proposes that meditation activates the parasympathetic nervous system, which counteracts stress-induced blood pressure elevation.
Which research result would best support Wang's claim?
Meditation classes are offered at many hospitals
Some cultures have practiced meditation for thousands of years
Patients report feeling calmer after meditation
Patients who meditated 20 minutes daily for 8 weeks showed an average 8-point reduction in systolic blood pressure compared to a control group
Correct Answer: D
Choice D is the best answer. Quantifiable evidence with controlled comparison proves the medical claim.
- Context clues: Wang claims meditation "reduces blood pressure."
- Evidence evaluation: 8-point reduction vs control group measures the outcome.
- Verify: Controlled study isolates meditation as the treatment variable.
💡 Strategy: Medical claims require objective measurements with control groups.
Choice A is incorrect because hospital offerings don't prove effectiveness. Choice B is incorrect because historical tradition doesn't prove medical benefits. Choice C is incorrect because subjective feelings don't measure blood pressure.