Epidemiological

Epidemiological is a branch of medicine that deals with the incidence, distribution, and possible control of diseases and other factors relating to health. It is a fundamental discipline of public health, and informs policy decisions and evidence-based practice by identifying risk factors for disease and targets for preventive healthcare.

Definition

Epidemiology is the study and analysis of the distribution (who, when, and where), patterns and determinants of health and disease conditions in defined populations. It is a cornerstone of public health, and shapes policy decisions and evidence-based practice by identifying risk factors for disease and targets for preventive healthcare.

History

The discipline of epidemiology has its roots in the studies of John Snow and others during the 19th century. Snow is famous for his investigations into the causes of the 19th century cholera epidemics, and is also believed to be the father of (modern) epidemiology.

Types of Studies

Epidemiologists employ a range of study designs from the observational to experimental and generally categorized as descriptive, analytic (aiming to further examine known associations or hypothesized relationships), and experimental (a term often equated with clinical or community trials of treatments and other interventions).

Uses

Epidemiological studies are used to plan and evaluate strategies to prevent illness and as a guide to the management of patients in whom disease has already developed.

See Also

• Epidemiology of obesity
• Epidemiology of diabetes
• Epidemiology of cancer

References

Epidemiological Resources
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