When Research Results Are in Conflict

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Abstract
On rare occasions a journal can publish two research papers back-to-back, each appearing quite sound in itself, that come to conclusions that are incompatible in whole or in part. Such a conjunction can put critical issues involving research methods and interpretations in unusually sharp focus. I recall that the Journal published such papers in 19781 , 2 and 1982,3 , 4 each with a helpful editorial.5 , 6 In this issue we have another such pair.7 , 8 Stampfer et al.7 report that the use of postmenopausal hormones, primarily conjugated estrogens and nearly all unopposed by progestins, substantially protects women against nonfatal myocardial infarction and fatal coronary heart . . .