Research and publish. Part 5. How to present and evaluate an observational study: cohorts

Abstract

Introduction: Cohort studies are a fundamental design in epidemiological and clinical research, allowing the evaluation of associations between exposures and health outcomes over time. Their longitudinal structure enables the estimation of disease incidence and the calculation of association measures such as relative risk. However, these studies present methodological challenges, including selection bias, information bias, and confounding, which must be addressed through appropriate design and analytical strategies.

Methods: To enhance the quality and transparency in reporting cohort studies, the STROBE Statement provides a detailed guide on key aspects to include in a scientific article, such as participant selection, exposure and outcome measurement, and statistical methods used.

Results: In the interpretation of cohort studies, the JAMA Evidence framework facilitates the assessment of study validity through a three-step approach: identification of bias risk, analysis of the magnitude and precision of the association, and determination of the applicability of findings in clinical practice.

Conclusion: Cohort studies are essential for generating health-related evidence, but their validity relies on rigorous execution and proper critical appraisal. The use of tools such as STROBE and JAMA Evidence improves the quality of reporting and interpretation, strengthening their impact on biomedical research and clinical practice.