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GCSE Biology · key term
A factor associated with both the factor being investigated and the outcome, which may provide an alternative explanation for an observed relationship.
Used by AQA and OCR
Specification 4.2.2.6 · Paper 1
Revise: The Impact and Epidemiology of Non-Communicable DiseaseIf the exposed group is older on average, age could be a confounding factor because disease incidence may also vary with age. Researchers can analyse age groups separately or adjust the data to make comparisons more meaningful. Sex and other lifestyle factors may need similar consideration.
Specification B6.3t · Paper 2 (Foundation), Paper 4 (Higher)
A third variable that may influence both variables being compared and therefore provide an alternative explanation for a correlation.
Revise: Lifestyle factorsThey must also consider confounding factors. For example, two populations with different smoking rates may also differ in age, air pollution, diet, occupation, income or access to health care. Any of these could influence disease incidence.
When evaluating epidemiological evidence, distinguish an association from a proven cause and identify possible confounding factors.
A correlation does not by itself prove causation. Mention possible confounding factors and whether a plausible causal mechanism is known.
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