Several challenges can complicate data retention in epidemiology:
Data Privacy: Ensuring the privacy and confidentiality of participants' data over extended periods can be challenging, especially with evolving cybersecurity threats. Storage Costs: The cost of data storage, particularly for large datasets, can be substantial. Researchers must balance financial constraints with the need for data retention. Data Degradation: Over time, data formats and storage media may become obsolete or degrade, risking data loss. Access and Management: Ensuring that retained data is accessible and well-managed for future use requires robust data management systems and practices.
