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Twin Cohorts Using Linked Administrative Data: A Rapid Review
Alexander Charles Campbell1,2,3, Dorret I Boomsma4,5, Veronika V Odintsova4,5
1Centre for Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Australia.
Summary
Twin research is enhancing human behavior and disease studies by linking administrative data. This review identified 47 unique twin cohorts globally utilizing linked health and education records.
Area of Science:
- Genetics and Epidemiology
- Population Health
- Behavioral Science
Background:
- Twin research increasingly utilizes administrative data from hospital, birth, and education registers.
- This integration supplements existing twin cohorts or identifies new ones within administrative datasets.
Purpose of the Study:
- To conduct a rapid review identifying twin cohorts that collect linked administrative data.
- To summarize the establishment, data collected, and size of these cohorts.
- To discuss opportunities, challenges, and future directions for twin research using linked administrative data.
Main Methods:
- Searched Medline database and the Atlas of Longitudinal Cohort Studies.
- Included twin studies linking data to pre-existing cohorts or identifying twin cohorts in administrative data.
Main Results:
- Identified 117 manuscripts/profiles representing 47 unique twin cohorts.
- Found two multicohort consortia using linked administrative data.
- Twin cohorts were identified across most global regions.
Conclusions:
- Linked administrative data is a growing resource for twin research globally.
- Further research is needed to address opportunities and challenges in utilizing these data sources.
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