What is Epidemiology?

Epidemiology is the study of the distribution and determinants of disease in human and animal populations. Diseases are not randomly distributed in populations and there are certain risk factors that influence diseases such as genetics and environmental elements.

Epidemiologists work around the world studying diseases, outbreaks and trends in populations to help prevent and control diseases.

• Identify the cause of a disease and its risk factors

• Determine the extent of the disease in the community

• Study the natural history and prognosis of disease

• Evaluate existing and newly developed preventative and therapeutic measures of health care delivery

• Provide the foundation for developing public policy