Conducting Research Using Population-Based Linked Data: Insights From a Longitudinal Investigation of Adolescent and Young Adult Offspring Impacted by Parental Cancer in Western Australia

Abstract

This case study shares the process of conducting research using population-based linked data. It draws on my PhD research, in which I used data from the Western Australian Data Linkage System to determine the number and characteristics of adolescents and young adults (12–24 years) impacted by parental cancer. This case study aims to provide readers with an understanding of data linkage, its benefits, and its research applications. It describes the process of applying for data, how it is linked and extracted, and gives examples of how the data can be managed in terms of cleaning and preparation. In addition, it describes methods of statistical analyses for linked data. Overall, this case study offers an insight into conceptualizing a study design and conducting research using population-based linked data.

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