Abstract
A successful start and the successful realization of any research activity depend upon the completion of certain rather well-defined chores before its embarkation. In this chapter, practical issues in setting up studies and data collection will be highlighted, with special emphasis to unique challenges in evidence-based rheumatology research. Setting up a study involves several complementary activities, including literature search, preliminary feasibility assessment, identification of data resources, investigation of potential study designs, associated regulatory requirements, and, possibly, funding opportunities. Data collection activities vary considerably depending on the study design, the direction of data collection procedures, the study objectives, characteristics of the main exposure(s) and outcome(s) of interest, potential confounders and/or effect modifiers, and the study setting, whether it involves special data collection procedures, such as biospecimens or patient-reported outcomes, feasibility issues, and financial restrictions.
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Kremers, H.M., Çakir, B. (2014). Issues in Setting Up a Study and Data Collection. In: Yazici, H., Yazici, Y., Lesaffre, E. (eds) Understanding Evidence-Based Rheumatology. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-08374-2_6
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-08374-2_6
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