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Cohort Study

Synonyms: Cluster Randomization; Panel Data Study; Longitudinal Study

Related Terms: Person Years; Prospective Clinical Research Study

In a cohort study, individuals exposed and not exposed (to suspected risk factors) are followed and compared to assess the extent to which each group experiences an outcome of interest -- often illness or death.

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Further Reading

Berger, M. et al. 2003. Health Care, Cost, Quality, and Outcomes: ISPOR Book of Terms, Lawrenceville, NJ: International Society for Pharmacoeconomics and Outcomes Research.

Gordis, L. 2000. Epidemiology, 2nd ed., Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier Science.

National Library of Medicine. Health Technology Assessment 101 Glossary. Available at http://www.nlm.nih.gov/nichsr/hta101/ta101_c1.html.