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512312 
Journal Article 
Cluster randomized controlled trials 
Puffer, S; Torgerson, DJ; Watson, J 
2005 
Yes 
Journal of Evaluation in Clinical Practice
ISSN: 1356-1294
EISSN: 1365-2753 
11 
5 
479-483 
English 
Cluster randomized controlled trial (RCT), in which groups or clusters of individuals rather than individuals themselves are randomized, are increasingly common. Indeed, for the evaluation of certain types of intervention (such as those used in health promotion and educational interventions) a cluster randomized trial is virtually the only valid approach. However, cluster trials are generally more difficult to design and execute than individually randomized studies, and some design features of a cluster trial may make it particularly vulnerable to a range of threats that can introduce bias. In this paper we discuss the issues that can lead to bias in cluster randomized trials and conclude with some suggestions for avoiding these problems. 
cluster; controlled trial; methodology; randomized; consort statement; methodologic quality; consent designs; clinical-trials; bias