Observational studies

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Observational Studies

Observational studies (pronunciation: /ɒbzərˈveɪʃənəl ˈstʌdiz/) are a type of research design where researchers observe the effect of a risk factor, diagnostic test, treatment or other intervention without trying to change who is or isn't exposed to it. They are often used in epidemiology and social science.

Etymology

The term "observational study" comes from the English words "observe" and "study". "Observe" originates from the Latin word "observare", meaning to watch, while "study" comes from the Latin word "studium", meaning eagerness or pursuit.

Types of Observational Studies

There are several types of observational studies, including:

  • Cohort study: This is a type of observational study where a group of individuals (a cohort) is followed over time to see how certain outcomes develop.
  • Case-control study: This is a type of observational study where two existing groups differing in outcome are identified and compared on the basis of some supposed causal attribute.
  • Cross-sectional study: This is a type of observational study that analyzes data from a population, or a representative subset, at a specific point in time.

Related Terms

  • Bias: This is a systematic error introduced into sampling or testing by selecting or encouraging one outcome or answer over others.
  • Confounding: This is a distortion of the association between an exposure and an outcome that occurs when the study group is not representative of the population.
  • Epidemiology: This is the study and analysis of the distribution, patterns and determinants of health and disease conditions in defined populations.
  • Research design: This is the overall strategy that you choose to integrate the different components of the study in a coherent and logical way.

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