The importance of cluster analysis for enhancing clinical practice: an example from irritable bowel syndrome

This is the authors' abstract. We don't add key points for this paper.

In clinical populations substantial heterogeneity exists in patient characteristics, illness severity and treatment responses. Better understanding of such heterogeneity may lead to more effective and efficient treatment by personalising care to better suit patient profiles. In this editorial we argue that the statistical method of cluster analysis is a means by which such heterogeneity can be understood, potentially leading to improved care in mental health services. The method is as yet relatively under-utilised and as such the barriers to its use and implementation are also considered.