A practical introduction to conducting and using case‐control studies

Abstract

Case‐control studies are a commonly encountered observational study design in pharmacy practice and pharmacotherapy research. This practical introduction to conducting and using case‐control studies focuses on the key risk of bias concepts related to the selection of cases and controls and measurement of the exposure. This article also explains how to calculate and interpret odds ratios for exposure in the context of case‐control studies. Finally, considerations for the applicability of case‐control study findings are provided in the context of clinical decision‐making around harmful exposures. Practical checklists are provided for users and researchers conducting case‐control studies.