What Are the Key Considerations When Using Data Sources?

When selecting and using data sources, epidemiologists must consider several factors to ensure data quality and relevance:

Validity: The degree to which a data source accurately reflects the concept it is intended to measure.
Reliability: The consistency of the data over time and across different observers or instruments.
Coverage: The extent to which the data include all relevant cases or events in the population.
Timeliness: The data should be recent enough to inform current public health decisions.
Accessibility: The ease with which researchers can obtain and use the data.