Noun Phrase
/ˈkɹɒsˌsɛkʃənəl ˈstʌdi/

Cross-Sectional Study

Observational studies that collect data from a population at a single point in time to examine prevalence and potential associations between variables.

Purpose: Useful for identifying correlations but cannot establish causation.

Example: A survey measuring diet and blood pressure in a group at one time.