A cohort study is a type of observational research design that involves following a group of individuals over time and comparing them to a similar group. The two groups, known as the cohort and comparison group, are typically followed from the same starting point in time but then take different paths or experience different exposures.
The main goal of a cohort study is to identify any differences between the two groups that may be attributed to the exposure or intervention under investigation. This type of research can provide valuable insights into the long-term effects of certain factors, such as lifestyle choices, environmental exposures, or medical treatments, on health outcomes over time.
Cohort studies are commonly used in epidemiology and public health to investigate the causes of diseases and other health conditions. They can also be applied to a wide range of research areas, including social science, economics, and education.