Glossary term

Retrospective study: A retrospective study looks back at existing records rather than following people forward from the start.

AdvancedResearchSource quality: MediumLast updated: 29 June 2026

Why this term matters

Included because many non-randomised cannabis studies use retrospective designs.

UK medical cannabis context

Best used in evidence-literacy pages.

What not to assume

Retrospective studies can be informative but are often more limited than prospective designs.

Careful wording: Avoid treating retrospective findings as definitive.

Related glossary terms

Related MCPH pages

Sources and review notes

This entry is educational vocabulary, not medical advice. Suitability, prescribing, product choice and monitoring belong with a qualified clinician or pharmacist.