What is meant by "retrospective research"?

Retrospective research refers to studies that focus on analyzing data gathered from past events or occurrences. This approach involves looking back at already existing data, such as medical records, historical datasets, or previous research findings, to draw conclusions and identify patterns or associations. One common reason for conducting retrospective studies is to harness previously collected information to understand relationships or outcomes that occurred in the past, thereby providing insights without the need for new data collection.

In contrast, other options involve different methodologies. Analyzing real-time data corresponds to studies that collect and analyze information as it becomes available, while prospective studies are designed to track outcomes forward in time, predicting future events based on initial data. Finally, analyzing ongoing trends relates to the examination of current or continuous data over a specified period rather than focusing on historical information. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for recognizing the specific characteristics and applications of retrospective research in various fields.