Epidemiology
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[edit] What is Epidemiology?
Epidemiology is the basic science of public health, as it is "the study of the distribution and determinants of health-related states in specified populations, and the application of this study to control health problems." (CDC, Excite) This basically means it is the study of what causes health issues, its spread amongst populations, and using such analysis to solve such health issues.
[edit] Purpose of this Wikibook
The purpose of this wikibook is to provide an introductory look into the field of epidemiology to those interested in such issues, but not to ultimately replace any sort of advanced textbook. It will look at
- 1.) the history and development of public health,
- 2.) terms and concepts applied in the public health field,
- 3.) common concerns and knowledge related to public health (i.e. what causes diseases, preventive methods), and
- 4.) an overview of the math used in epidemiological studies.
The goal is to demystify a subject which may appear daunting at first, but whose knowledge is beneficial to the general public.
Go to the Table of Contents.
