Iranian Journal of

Case-Cohort and nested case-control designs are the most well-known and cost-effective derivatives of prospective studies. Due to the popularity of these designs in recent years, the aim of this study is to provide a comprehensive and up-to-date description of them with respect to methodological issues such as sampling scheme, effect measure estimation, and analysis strategies. Overall, random sampling of controls in case-cohort and matching for time in nested design are considered their hallmarks. Eventually, decision on a better design depends on study objectives, sub-cohort selection, case and control determination, and method of data collection. It should be kept in mind that any particular study requires unique elaboration and delicate examination to choose from the designs.