Causal inference in multi-cohort studies using the target trial framework to identify and minimize sources of bias.

ABSTRACT: Longitudinal cohort studies, which follow a group of individuals over time, provide the opportunity to examine the causal effects of complex exposures on long-term health outcomes. Utilizing data from multiple cohorts has the potential to add further benefit by improving the precision of estimates through data pooling and by allowing examination of effect heterogeneity through replication of analyses across cohorts. However, the interpretation of findings can be complicated by biases that may be compounded when pooling data or contribute to discrepant findings when analyses are replicated. The "target trial" is a powerful tool for guiding causal inference in single-cohort studies. Here we extend this conceptual framework to address the specific challenges that can arise in the multi-cohort

SUBMITTER: Downes M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12409135 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature