WHY STUDY

EPIDEMIOLOGY?
Dr. Imran Shaikh
Revised 4/12/06

What is Epidemiology?
It is the study of how disease is distributed in the
populations and the factors that influence or determine
its distribution
OR
Its the study of distribution and determinants of health
related

events

in

specified

populations

and

application of this study to control these problems

the

Objectivity of epidemiology
To identify the etiology and risk factors
To determine the extent of disease in the population
To study the natural history and prognosis of disease
To evaluate existing and new preventive and therapeutic
measures and modes of health care delivery
To provide public policies and regulatory decisions

Epidemiology and prevention

Identification of high risk groups
Identification specific factors or characteristics
that that put populations to risk

How can we approach populations

for prevention of disease?
Population based approach
High risk approach
Individual approach

Epidemiology and clinical practice

Critical to clinical practice
Selection of appropriate therapy

How does epidemiologist approach

to identify a disease?
Person
Place
Time

Epidemiological Triangle

Agent

Host

Environment

Humans

Wheel Theory
Environment

Social

Man
Genetic
Core

Physical

Biological