RT Journal Article
SR Electronic
T1 Methodological problems in the epidemiological study of osteoarthritis.
JF Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases
JO Ann Rheum Dis
FD BMJ Publishing Group Ltd and European League Against Rheumatism
SP 143
OP 146
DO 10.1136/ard.53.2.143
VO 53
IS 2
A1 T D Spector
A1 M C Hochberg
YR 1994
UL http://ard.bmj.com/content/53/2/143.abstract
AB In conclusion, though there are numerous opportunities and different approaches to studying the epidemiology of OA, we have concentrated on some of the methodological problems and difficulties inherent in these methods. We think it is important that researchers are aware of these problems before undertaking such studies. In addition, readers of published studies need to be aware of these potential pitfalls before being able to make valid judgements on research papers. We hope, however, that stressing these problems does not dissuade present and future investigators from participating in this area of research. Despite difficulties inherent in the epidemiology of chronic diseases and OA in particular, studies may uncover modifiable risk factors for the development and progression of OA which could lead to important preventive strategies.