What Are Common Limitations in Epidemiological Studies?
Several types of limitations are frequently encountered in epidemiological research, including:
1. Selection Bias: This occurs when the participants included in the study are not representative of the general population. It can lead to skewed results that do not generalize well. 2. Confounding: This happens when an outside factor is related to both the exposure and the outcome, potentially distorting the true relationship between them. 3. Measurement Error: This involves inaccuracies in the way data is collected. It can stem from faulty instruments, incorrect self-reporting, or other issues. 4. Loss to Follow-up: In longitudinal studies, participants may drop out over time, which can bias the results if the attrition is related to both exposure and outcome. 5. Sample Size: Small sample sizes can limit the study's power to detect true associations and can lead to type II errors.
