Cohort — What It Means in Clinical Trials
Plain English Definition
A cohort is a group of participants who share a common characteristic and are studied together. In a clinical trial, cohorts are often defined by the dose they receive or the stage of their disease. Researchers compare outcomes across cohorts to draw conclusions.
Why It Matters
You may be placed in a specific cohort based on your condition or treatment history. Understanding which cohort you are in helps you know what dose or treatment you will receive.
Example
A listing may state: "Cohort 1: patients with early-stage disease; Cohort 2: patients with advanced disease." Your disease stage determines your cohort assignment.
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