Abstract

GOMEZ-RESTREPO, Carlos  and  OKUDA BENAVIDES, Mayumi. Medical Studies` Methodology and Critical Reading. Factors leading to Confusion. rev.colomb.psiquiatr. [online]. 2006, vol.35, n.2, pp.242-248. ISSN 0034-7450.

Objective: To describe the definition of confounding factors, give some examples and tools for their determination, and to suggest strategies to reduce confusion in study designs. Methods: The terms confusion and confounding factors are briefly explained and some examples are given. Some of the methods used to assess them in the course of different studies and the ways to improve the design of these studies are also addressed. Conclusion: Confusion should be evaluated in order to describe the true relationship between variables.

Keywords : Confusion; bias (epidemiology); risk factor.

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