Non experimental trials

In non-experimental trials, the team conducting the research “observes” reality without acting in relation to the conditions of exposure of the subjects studied. Among the observational studies are mainly : 

Cross-sectional studies :

Cross-sectional studies describe the frequency of an illness, any risk factors and its other characteristics in a given population over a set period of time.

They generate prevalence data (number of times an event, an illness, is observed in a given population at a given point in time or during a set period of time). 

They therefore allow a comparison to be made between a group of exposed subjects with a group of non-exposed subjects from the point of view of the frequency of the illness. 

PiLeJe conducted an epidemiological study in relation to micronutritionist doctors’ treatment of frail subjects or those at risk of becoming frail.

The objective was to identify the most frequently recommended dietary supplements for these subjects.

The results of this epidemiological study were as follows

- 100% of patients were advised to take Revitaline ®, at the rate of twice a day for two months for 80% of patients and one month for the remaining 20%.
- For 30% of patients Enabiane® was also recommended 
- 70% received a polyunsaturated fatty acid supplement from the Omegabiane® range
- 90% also received a Lactibiane® range probiotic

Case-control studies :

Case-control studies take place once the illness is declared as being present.

They make it possible to compare people that are ill with people that are not ill with exposure that took place prior to the onset of the illness. 

The characteristics of affected patients (the cases) are compared with those of unaffected subjects (the controls).

The comparison of the two groups looks at the scale of exposure to the risk factor.

Frequently the exposure is determined through questioning.

Cohort studies :

Cohort studies are conducted on a group of people exposed to the risk factors for a particular illness. 

The exposed group is monitored for a set period of time and compared with a control group that has not been exposed.

The subjects are selected on the basis of whether or not they have been exposed.

Exposure may be measured for an individual using questioning, clinical and biological examinations.

PiLeJe conducted an epidemiological study on OligobianeFeCu.

The objective of the study was to evaluate the effects of a 6 month course of treatment of OligobianeFeCu on the ferritinemia of women with an initial deficiency.

The results demonstrate that a course of 6 month treatment with Oligobiane FeCu® significantly improves the ferritinemia of women showing an initial deficiency and stimulates the production of haemoglobin.

TO SUM UP :

In nutrition, epidemiological or observational studies provide information about the effects of a particular nutrient, micronutrient or diet under normal conditions of use. They allow hypotheses to be formulated and trends established with regard to the effect of a particular micronutritional deficiency or excess on a particular health problem.