Quiz 1, Module Ecological
1. Based on the facts presented, which of the following would be the most appropriate hypothesis to investigate using an ecological study?
- Residents of Epiville are at a higher risk of developing Susser Syndrome than residents of the neighboring towns.
- Employees of the Porks-A-Lot pig farm have a greater risk of developing Susser Syndrome than the general population of Epiville.
- The population served by the Rothman Reservoir has a higher incidence proportion of Susser Syndrome than does the population served by the Greenland Reservoir.
- Those diagnosed with Susser Syndrome will have greater odds of being a Porks-A-Lot employee than those without Susser Syndrome.
Answer (a) —
incorrect:
We do not have data for the neighboring towns to compare with that of Epiville. This hypothesis is too broad.
Answer (b) —
incorrect:
This hypothesis is more characteristic of a cohort study. We do not have the necessary data to test it
Answer (c) —
correct:
Ecological studies involve comparison and analysis at the population or group level. In our study, we have chosen to hypothesize that the Rothman Reservoir population will have a higher incidence proportion of Susser Syndrome than the Greenland Reservoir. (Note: The alternative would also be an appropriate hypothesis to test).
Answer (d) —
incorrect:
This hypothesis is more appropriate for a case-control study