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Cross-sectional study

A study that examines a group at one point in time. It can show associations, but cannot prove what is cause and what is consequence.

Also called
cross-sectional survey, cross-sectional analysis

A cross-sectional study examines a group at one point in time (or in a short period) instead of following the same people over a long time. Examples from news items by Autismus Wissen: an online survey on special interests with 182 adults [1] and an analysis of insurance and death register data on life expectancy [2]. Both describe differences and associations; the authors point out that such cross-sectional data do not prove causes. [1; 2]

Editorial explanation (general, not from the sources): Because all data are collected at the same time, it is often impossible to say what came first; in addition, results depend on who takes part. Cross-sectional studies are therefore good for first indications and descriptions, but weaker than studies that compare groups over time or assign them at random. More: How good is a study? Evidence explained and Evidence.

Sources and literature

  1. Bayer M, Dziobek I: Special Interests in Autism: Functions, Benefits, and Challenges. Autism 2026 (online 06.08.2026). https://doi.org/10.1177/13623613261471572 (Open Access, Europe PMC PMC13624314)
  2. Li G, DiGuiseppi CG, Blanchard A, Russell MT, Ing C: Autism Spectrum Disorder and Life Expectancy Among Medicaid Beneficiaries. JAMA Network Open 2026 (online 10.09.2026). https://doi.org/10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2026.33251

In detail: How good is a study? Evidence and recommendations explained

Articles on this term

Related terms

  • Evidence

    Evidence means scientific proof. How robust it is depends on the type of study, bias and the body of studies. No evidence does not mean ineffective.

  • Systematic review and meta-analysis

    A systematic review evaluates studies by set rules; a meta-analysis combines their results statistically. Definition with an example on prevalence.

  • Prevalence

    Prevalence shows how common something is in a population. Figures on autism depend heavily on how and where counting is done. Definition and context.

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