The critical use of statistical inference in occupational epidemiology: essay

Abstract

Introduction  Statistical inference (SI) methods are widely used in epidemiological data analyses to evaluate random variation as a probable source of error in the results. However, the assumptions necessary for its use are frequently unmet.

Objective  To discuss assumptions for SI, implications of its use when individuals are non-randomly selected, different statistical approaches of epidemiological data and results extrapolation sceneries in occupational epidemiology.

Methods  Essay based in the specialized literature and in the authors’ academic experience.

Results  This essay presents situations of epidemiological research in which the SI procedures are used without the support of the assumptions for its appliance. Situations of generalization of epidemiological results are discussed, pinpointing when the validity of using SI can be questioned. The considerations about themes addressed in this essay aim to contribute to the critical management of data analysis and to the process of results extrapolation in occupational epidemiology research, delimiting the role of SI.

Conclusion  The use of statistical methods and of the report of research results should include essential provisos that allow the reader to evaluate its pertinence, possible assumptions violation, and the validity of the reasoning and of the inference used.

Epidemiology and Biostatistics; Sampling Studies; Confidence Intervals; Statistical Analysis; Data Interpretation, Statistical; Occupational Health