What are the common weaknesses in epidemiological studies?
Several common weaknesses can impact the validity and reliability of epidemiological studies:
Selection Bias: Occurs when the sample is not representative of the population being studied, leading to skewed results. Information Bias: Arises from inaccuracies in the data collected, whether due to faulty measurement tools or reporting errors. Confounding Variables: These are extraneous variables that can distort the apparent relationship between the study variables. Recall Bias: Particularly common in retrospective studies, where participants may not accurately remember past events or exposures. Loss to Follow-Up: In longitudinal studies, participants dropping out can lead to incomplete data and potential bias.
