What are cross-sectional studies?

Cross-sectional studies are observational studies (which do not perform intervention) in which exposure and outcome are evaluated simultaneously.

In what kind of situation could we use the cross-sectional study?

Cross-sectional studies assess frequency or prevalence measures.

We can use it to assess chronic diseases.

For example, what is the prevalence of diabetes in morbidly obese patients? To answer this clinical question, we selected a sample of morbidly obese patients and verified how many of these patients have diabetes. The answer would be a measure of prevalence.

What is the advantage of carrying out a cross-sectional study?

They are cheap and straightforward studies since follow-up is unnecessary (the study is timeless).

What are the disadvantages of cross-sectional studies?

It is not suitable for assessing acute conditions. Another major disadvantage is that associations found in observational studies are of little value in determining causality. If we recall Hill's criteria for causality, one of the criteria is temporality (the cause must precede the disease). Thus, cross-sectional studies would be poor in determining whether morbid obesity causes diabetes.

This text was written by:

Francisco Tustumi,

FMUSP Digestive System Surgeon

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