Which Types of Studies are Common in Epidemiology?
Epidemiological research employs various study designs, each with specific applications and strengths. The most common types include:
- Descriptive studies that characterize the distribution of health outcomes. - Analytical studies such as cohort studies, case-control studies, and cross-sectional studies, which investigate the associations between exposures and outcomes. - Experimental studies, including clinical trials, which test the efficacy of interventions.