Causal inference in multi-cohort studies using the target trial approach

Abstract

Abstract Focus of Presentation Utilising data from multiple cohorts to address causal questions in health research has become increasingly widespread due to a number of advantages. These include improved precision of estimates, in particular to investigate effect heterogeneity as well as rare events and exposures, and the ability to examine the replicability of findings. However, undertaking causal inference in multi-cohort studies also faces several challenges, which makes clear causal thinking even more important than in single-cohort studies. We propose the use of the “target trial” framework for the conduct of causal inference in multi-..