What type of study design is characterized as non-randomized with two groups?

What type of study design is characterized as non-randomized with two groups?

• A. Case reports and expert opinions
• B. Single subject design and case studies
• C. Cohort and case-controlled
• D. Before/after and pre/post

Answer: (C)

The correct answer highlights a type of study design known for its non-randomized nature and distinction between two groups, specifically referring to cohort studies and case-controlled studies. In cohort studies, researchers observe two or more groups (cohorts) over time to determine how different exposures impact outcomes. For instance, a group exposed to a specific treatment can be compared to a control group that does not receive the treatment, allowing for observations about the potential effectiveness or impact of the treatment. Case-controlled studies, on the other hand, begin with an outcome and look back to identify exposure to possible risk factors. In this design, researchers typically select a group of individuals with the outcome of interest (cases) and a matching group without that outcome (controls), providing insights into associations between risk factors and outcomes. Both study designs involve comparing groups and observing outcomes based on different exposures or conditions, making them well-suited for analyzing relationships when randomization is not feasible. This pertinent characteristic stands in contrast to other options, which either describe different methodologies, such as qualitative evidence or experimental designs, or do not emphasize the comparative nature of two groups within a non-randomized framework.

The correct answer highlights a type of study design known for its non-randomized nature and distinction between two groups, specifically referring to cohort studies and case-controlled studies.

In cohort studies, researchers observe two or more groups (cohorts) over time to determine how different exposures impact outcomes. For instance, a group exposed to a specific treatment can be compared to a control group that does not receive the treatment, allowing for observations about the potential effectiveness or impact of the treatment.

Case-controlled studies, on the other hand, begin with an outcome and look back to identify exposure to possible risk factors. In this design, researchers typically select a group of individuals with the outcome of interest (cases) and a matching group without that outcome (controls), providing insights into associations between risk factors and outcomes.

Both study designs involve comparing groups and observing outcomes based on different exposures or conditions, making them well-suited for analyzing relationships when randomization is not feasible. This pertinent characteristic stands in contrast to other options, which either describe different methodologies, such as qualitative evidence or experimental designs, or do not emphasize the comparative nature of two groups within a non-randomized framework.