Advancing birth cohort studies using administrative and other research-independent data repositories: Opportunities and challenges

The birth cohort study design is an essential epidemiologic tool for investigating the developmental origins of health and disease. Birth cohorts have greatly improved the etiologic understanding of asthma and allergic diseases, setting the stage for advancements in translational interventions. Increasingly, investigators leverage data repositories that have been compiled and maintained independently of research investigations (administrative data) to establish large birth cohorts or to augment data generated through active participant interaction. In many cases, administrative data can greatly enhance the capacity of birth cohorts to achieve their scientific goals. However, investigators must be wary of common pitfalls and carefully consider whether administrative data are well suited to the scientific inquiry. This article reviews the strengths and challenges of using administrative data and the pragmatic solutions that have been developed to optimize their use in birth cohorts. As birth cohorts continue to play an important role in understanding the etiology of early-life disease, unleashing the power of administrative data will greatly assist in this scientific process.