Question
Which of the following is NOT a type of matching used in epidemiological studies (especially case-control studies)?
| A. |
Group matching |
| B. |
Matching with pairs |
| C. |
Collective matching |
| D. |
Frequency matching |
Show Answer
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Correct Answer » C Explanation |
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Matching is a technique used primarily in case-control studies to control for confounding variables by ensuring that cases and controls are comparable with respect to selected characteristics such as age, sex, or socioeconomic status.
C. Collective matching
- Collective matching is not a recognized type of matching in epidemiology.
- The standard types of matching are:
- Individual (Pair) matching
- Frequency (Group) matching
Why the Other Options are Correct
A. Group matching
- Also known as frequency matching.
- Controls are selected so that the overall distribution of matching variables (e.g., age, sex) is similar to that of the cases.
B. Pair matching
- Also called individual matching.
- Each case is matched with one or more controls having similar characteristics.
D. Frequency matching
- Synonymous with group matching.
- Ensures similar frequency distribution of selected variables between cases and controls.