Introduction to Epidemiology PDF

Introduction to Epidemiology BSc Medical Sciences: Epidemiology Assistant Prof. Dr. Soza Th. Baban Learning objectives Learning objectives By the end of this session, students should be able to: 1. Define and explain the concept of Epidemiolo...

Introduction to Epidemiology BSc Medical Sciences: Epidemiology Assistant Prof. Dr. Soza Th. Baban Learning objectives Learning objectives By the end of this session, students should be able to: 1. Define and explain the concept of Epidemiology. 2. Discuss the importance of changing patterns of diseases over time. 3. Explain the important role of Epidemiology in healthcare and objectives What Is Epidemiology? Epidemiology is the study of how disease is distributed in populations and the factors that influence or determine this distribution. Definition of Epidemiology ‘‘the study of the distribution and determinants of health-related states or events in specified populations and the application of this study to control of health problems.’’  Factors Influencing Disease Development Health status varies among individuals due to a mix of genetic, environmental, behavioral, and social factors. These characteristics influence our susceptibility to or protection from various diseases. Often, it’s the interaction of these factors that determines health outcomes.  Why is Epidemiology Important? Epidemiology helps us understand how and why diseases spread and how we can prevent them. This field of study is crucial in improving public health and developing effective health policies. Epidemiology allows us to: 1. Control the spread of infectious diseases (e.g. flu, COVID-19). 2. Identify and address non-communicable diseases (e.g. heart disease, diabetes). 3. Inform policy-making and public health interventions.  Role of Epidemiology in healthcare Epidemiology is the basic science of disease prevention and plays major roles in developing and evaluating public policy relating to health and to social and legal issues. The majority of epidemiologic research focuses on establishing etiologic associations between risks and health outcomes.  Role of Epidemiology in healthcare Epidemiology is also widely used in the evaluation of primary and secondary prevention programs, comparisons of interventions, and the evaluation of policy at the population level. What are the specific objectives of epidemiology? 1. Identify the disease etiology 1. To identify the etiology, or cause, of a disease and its relevant risk factors (i.e., factors that increase a person’s risk for a disease). How the disease is transmitted from one person to another or from a nonhuman reservoir to a human population. Why it arises due to risk behaviors the person engages in.  1. Identify the disease etiology To develop prevention programs to reduce morbidity and mortality from the disease. Interventions (vaccinations, lifestyle changes, medical treatments) to prevent the transmission of the disease to others. Public health policies aimed at improving health outcomes.  2. What is the burden of disease in the community? 2. To determine the extent of disease found in the community. This is critical for planning health services and facilities and for estimating how many future health care providers should be trained.  3. Natural history and prognosis of disease Certain diseases are more severe than others; some may be rapidly lethal, whereas others may have extended durations of survival. Many diseases are not fatal but may affect quality of life or be associated with disability. To develop new modes of intervention, either through treatments or through new ways of preventing complications.  4.Evaluating the Impact of Health Measures To evaluate both existing and newly developed preventive and therapeutic measures and modes of health care delivery. Example: Does screening men for prostate cancer using the prostate- specific antigen (PSA) test improve survival in people found to have prostate cancer?  4.Evaluating the Impact of Health Measures Has the growth of managed care and other new systems of health care delivery and health care insurance had an impact on the health outcomes of the patients involved and on their quality of life? If so, what has been the nature of this impact and how can it be measured?  5. Implementing public policy Epidemiology can provide the foundation for developing public policy relating to environmental problems, genetic issues, and other social and behavioral considerations regarding disease prevention and health promotion. Examples: Is the electromagnetic radiation that is emitted by cell phones, electric blankets and heating pads, and other household appliances a hazard to human health?  5. Implementing public policy Are high levels of atmospheric ozone or particulate matter a cause of adverse acute or chronic health effects in human populations? Is radon in homes a significant risk to human beings? Which occupations are associated with increased risks of disease in workers, and what types of regulation are required to reduce these risks? Preparation for Next Session ❑For the next session, make sure to complete the following reading and prepare for group discussions. ❑Read Chapter 2 (Pages 20-40) from 'Gordis Epidemiology' by Celentano DD and Szklo M.