Epidemiology
E pidemiology is the study (scientific, systematic, data-driven) of the distribution (frequency, pattern) and determinants (causes, risk factors) of health-related states and events (not just diseases) in specified populations (patient is community, individuals viewed collectively), and the application of (since epidemiology is a discipline within public health) this study to the control of health problems. P urposes of Epidemiology: a) Describing disease occurrence and distribution of disease in population groups and development over time (trend). b) Identifying cause and risk factors of disease (aetiology). c) Undertaking experiments to assess the effects of treatments or preventive efforts. d) Elucidating the natural history and prognosis of disease. e) Providing foundation for public policy. T ypes of Epidemiology: 1) Descriptive Epidemiol...