Approaches to improve causal inference in physical activity epidemiology
Article
Article Title | Approaches to improve causal inference in physical activity epidemiology |
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ERA Journal ID | 9773 |
Article Category | Article |
Authors | Lynch, Brigid M. (Author), Dixon-Suen, Suzanne C. (Author), Ramirez Varela, Andrea, Yang, Yi (Author), English, Dallas R. (Author), Ding, Ding (Author), Gardiner, Paul A. (Author) and Boyle, Terry (Author) |
Journal Title | Journal of Physical Activity and Health |
Journal Citation | 17 (1), pp. 80-84 |
Number of Pages | 5 |
Year | 2020 |
Publisher | Human Kinetics Publishers |
Place of Publication | Champaign, IL, United States |
ISSN | 1543-3080 |
1543-5474 | |
Digital Object Identifier (DOI) | https://doi.org/10.1123/jpah.2019-0515 |
Web Address (URL) | https://journals.humankinetics.com/view/journals/jpah/17/1/article-p80.xml |
Abstract | Background: It is not always clear whether physical activity is causally related to health outcomes, or whether the associations are induced through confounding or other biases. Randomized controlled trials of physical activity are not feasible when outcomes of interest are rare or develop over many years. Thus, we need methods to improve causal inference in observational physical activity studies. Methods:We outline a range of approaches that can improve causal inference in observational physical activity research, and also discuss the impact of measurement error on results and methods to minimize this. Results: Key concepts and methods described include directed acyclic graphs, quantitative bias analysis, Mendelian randomization, and potential outcomes approaches which include propensity scores, g methods, and causal mediation. Conclusions: We provide a brief overview of some contemporary epidemiological methods that are beginning to be used in physical activity research. Adoption of these methods will help build a stronger body of evidence for the health benefits of physical activity. © 2020 Human Kinetics, Inc. |
Keywords | biostatistics; causal inference; methods; potential outcomes approach |
ANZSRC Field of Research 2020 | 420204. Epidemiological methods |
Public Notes | Files associated with this item cannot be displayed due to copyright restrictions. |
Byline Affiliations | Cancer Council Australia, Australia |
Federal University of Pelotas, Brazil | |
University of Sydney | |
University of Queensland | |
University of South Australia | |
Institution of Origin | University of Southern Queensland |
https://research.usq.edu.au/item/q6q4q/approaches-to-improve-causal-inference-in-physical-activity-epidemiology
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