Activity Overview

The creation of the Rheum4Science program grew out of the conviction that teaching science is important for rheumatologists in training and that adult learners benefit from a variety of resources and formats. Rheum4Science interactive modules teach the underlying immunology and clinical research methodology necessary for the knowledgeable practice of rheumatology. 

This activity focuses on cohort studies, a type of observational study.  Learn about the defining strengths and limitations of cohort studies and how to apply the results of a cohort study to patient scenarios.

Rheum4Science Series

This activity is part of a series. See the other activities in the series below.

Rheum4Science – Immunology

• Rheum4Science: Overview of Innate Immunity
• Rheum4Science: Toll-Like Receptors
• Rheum4Science: The NLRP3 Inflammasome
• Rheum4Science: Complement Pathways
• Rheum4Science: Fundamental Principles of B Cell Immunobiology
• Rheum4Science: T Cells - What Every Rheumatologist Needs to Know
• Rheum4Science: Neutrophils

Rheum4Science – Immunopathogenesis of Rheumatic Disease

• Rheum4Science: Pathogenesis of Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheum4Science – Clinical Research Methodology

• Rheum4Science: Data & Distribution
• Rheum4Science: Cohort Studies
• Rheum4Science: Randomized Controlled Trials

Registration is complimentary.

Target Audience

Rheumatology fellows in training. This activity may also be of interest to medical students, residents, practicing rheumatologists, and other rheumatology health care providers interested in strengthening their understanding of basic scientific principles and clinical research methodology relevant to the field of rheumatology.  

Learning Objectives

Upon completion of this activity, participants should be able to:

• Recognize a cohort study
• Delineate the strengths and limitations of a cohort study
• Identify clinical questions that could be best answered using a cohort study
• Recognize potential pitfalls encountered in cohort studies, and strategies to address these
• Accurately interpret analytic approaches used in cohort studies
• Apply the results of a cohort study to patient scenarios

CE & MOC Information

This activity is not eligible for CME/MOC.

Acknowledgement of Commercial Support

No commercial support was provided for this activity.

Educational Activity Policies

See ACR educational activity policies, including the online enduring activity refund policy.