Epidemiology

The influence of certain factors on data analysis is always going to be a consideration (or at least should be) when studies are conducted, or projects undertaken. Researchers are considered to have bias under almost every circumstance, and as such should be reminded that the bias must be disclosed and considered when data is gathered and then analyzed. The validity of the data is also at stake; as one recent study determined "the validity of a (nonrandomized) observational study is often questioned because of unknown/unmeasured factors, which may have confounding and/or effect-modifying potential" (Wen-Chung, 2014, p. 1). So, determining the validity of the data is oftentimes seen as a way to measure the strength of the data overall. Therefore, of course conclusions of validity will be affected. Confounding takes place when the variables are not fully considered, so additional consideration must take place as well. When there is correlation...
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