longitudinal data

Longitudinal data refers to information collected about the same subjects or groups repeatedly over a period of time. This type of data allows researchers to observe how variables change or develop, identify patterns, and determine cause-and-effect relationships. For example, tracking individuals' health metrics annually over several years provides insights into health trends and the impact of lifestyle factors. Longitudinal studies are valuable in many fields such as medicine, social sciences, and education, as they help understand dynamics and changes within the same units over time rather than just a snapshot at a single point.