What are the Types of Studies Used in Toxicological Epidemiology?
Several study designs are used in toxicological epidemiology, each with its strengths and limitations:
Cohort Studies: These studies follow a group of people over time to assess the health effects of exposure to a particular toxicant. They are useful for determining the incidence of health effects. Case-Control Studies: These studies compare individuals with a disease or health outcome (cases) to those without (controls) to identify potential exposure-related risks. Cross-Sectional Studies: These assess the health status and exposure levels of a population at a single point in time, providing a snapshot that can indicate potential associations.