What does a cohort study involve?

A cohort study involves following a specific group of individuals, who share a common characteristic or experience, over a period of time to observe outcomes and changes. This approach is crucial in epidemiology and public health research as it allows for the examination of the incidence of disease, risk factors, and the long-term effects of exposures.

In a cohort study, researchers can collect data on various variables while monitoring the cohort for the development of certain outcomes, such as diseases or health-related behaviors. This longitudinal aspect helps establish timelines and potential cause-effect relationships, providing valuable insights into how specific factors may influence health over time.

The other options do not accurately represent the nature of a cohort study. For instance, measuring fertility rates over a certain period pertains more to demographic studies rather than tracking a defined group over time. Analyzing mortality rates may involve cross-sectional data rather than a long-term follow-up. Tracking social movements examines behavioral trends and may not focus on a specific cohort concerning health outcomes.