Igelström, E. , Craig, P. , Lewsey, J. , Lynch, J., Pearce, A. and Katikireddi, S. V. (2022) Causal inference and effect estimation using observational data. Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health, 76(11), pp. 960-966. (doi: 10.1136/jech-2022-219267) (PMCID:PMC9554068)
![[img]](https://eprints.gla.ac.uk/style/images/fileicons/text.png) |
Text
275662.pdf - Published Version Available under License Creative Commons Attribution. 954kB |
Abstract
Observational studies aiming to estimate causal effects often rely on conceptual frameworks that are unfamiliar to many researchers and practitioners. We provide a clear, structured overview of key concepts and terms, intended as a starting point for readers unfamiliar with the causal inference literature. First, we introduce theoretical frameworks underlying causal effect estimation methods: the counterfactual theory of causation, the potential outcomes framework, structural equations and directed acyclic graphs. Second, we define the most common causal effect estimands, and the issues of effect measure modification, interaction and mediation (direct and indirect effects). Third, we define the assumptions required to estimate causal effects: exchangeability, positivity, consistency and non-interference. Fourth, we define and explain biases that arise when attempting to estimate causal effects, including confounding, collider bias, selection bias and measurement bias. Finally, we describe common methods and study designs for causal effect estimation, including covariate adjustment, G-methods and natural experiment methods.
| Item Type: | Articles |
|---|---|
| Additional Information: | EI, PC, SVK and AP receive funding from the Medical Research Council (MC_UU_00022/2) and the Scottish Government Chief Scientist Office (SPHSU17). SVK is supported by an National Health Service Research Scotland Senior Clinical Fellowship (SCAF/15/02) and a European Research Council Starter grant (949582). AP is supported by the Wellcome Trust (205412/Z/16/Z). |
| Status: | Published |
| Refereed: | Yes |
| Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: | Katikireddi, Professor Vittal and Craig, Professor Peter and Igelström, Erik and Lewsey, Professor Jim and Pearce, Dr Anna |
| Creator Roles: | Igelström, E.Conceptualization, Writing – original draft Craig, P.Conceptualization, Writing – review and editing, Supervision Lewsey, J.Conceptualization, Writing – review and editing, Supervision Pearce, A.Conceptualization, Writing – review and editing Katikireddi, V.Conceptualization, Writing – review and editing, Supervision |
| Authors: | Igelström, E., Craig, P., Lewsey, J., Lynch, J., Pearce, A., and Katikireddi, S. V. |
| College/School: | College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Health & Wellbeing > Health Economics and Health Technology Assessment College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Health & Wellbeing > MRC/CSO SPHSU |
| Journal Name: | Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health |
| Publisher: | BMJ Publishing Group |
| ISSN: | 0143-005X |
| ISSN (Online): | 1470-2738 |
| Published Online: | 06 September 2022 |
| Copyright Holders: | Copyright © 2022 The Authors |
| First Published: | First published in Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health 76(11): 960-966 |
| Publisher Policy: | Reproduced under a Creative Commons License |
University Staff: Request a correction | Enlighten Editors: Update this record
Funder and Project Information
Funder and Project Information