What are the Key Components of an Epidemiological Study?
An epidemiological study typically includes several key components:
Study Design: Choosing between observational or experimental designs, such as cohort, case-control, or randomized controlled trials. Population: Defining the group of individuals being studied, including selection criteria and sample size. Exposure and Outcome: Identifying the factors being studied (exposure) and the health events of interest (outcome). Data Analysis: Using statistical methods to interpret the data and determine associations or causal relationships.
