What are the Methods of Data Collection in Epidemiology?
Data collection is a critical aspect of epidemiology. Common methods include:
Surveys - Questionnaires and interviews used to gather information from a sample population. Cohort Studies - Following a group of people over time to assess the development of disease. Case-Control Studies - Comparing individuals with a disease to those without to identify risk factors. Randomized Controlled Trials - Experimental studies where participants are randomly assigned to intervention or control groups to evaluate the efficacy of treatments. Ecological Studies - Analysis of data at the population or group level rather than individual level.