A study is planned to investigate risk factors for sudden cardiac death. A cohort of men and women between the ages of 35 and 70 are enrolled and followed for up to 20 years. As part of the study,...

A study is planned to investigate risk factors for sudden cardiac death.  A cohort of men and women between the ages of 35 and 70 are enrolled and followed for up to 20 years.  As part of the study, participants provide data on demographic and behavioral characteristics, they also undergo testing for cardiac function and provide a blood samples to assess lipid profiles and other biomarkers.  A new measure of inflammation is hypothesized to be related to sudden cardiac death.

What study design is most appropriate to assess the association between the new biomarker and sudden cardiac death?

Are there any assumptions about cardiac death that we must assume for this study type?

Indicate the study type's specific strengths and weaknesses.