Epidemiological study
Epidemiological Study
An Epidemiological Study (pronounced: e-pi-de-mi-o-lo-gi-cal stu-dy) is a type of scientific research that aims to understand the patterns, causes, and effects of health and disease conditions in defined populations. It is a cornerstone of public health, and informs policy decisions and evidence-based practice by identifying risk factors for disease and targets for preventive healthcare.
Etymology
The term "Epidemiological Study" is derived from the Greek words epi (upon), demos (people), and logos (study). It literally means "the study of what is upon the people", which has been interpreted as the study of the distribution and determinants of health-related states or events.
Types of Epidemiological Studies
There are two main types of epidemiological studies: observational studies and experimental studies. Observational studies observe individuals and measure variables of interest without assigning treatments to individuals. On the other hand, experimental studies do assign treatments to individuals.
Observational Studies
Observational studies can be either descriptive studies, which involve collection of data to test hypotheses or to answer questions regarding the current status of the subject of study, or analytical studies, which are used to test hypotheses about the relationships between health problems and possible risk factors.
Experimental Studies
Experimental studies, also known as clinical trials, involve an investigator manipulating a subject's exposure to a factor of interest and then observing the outcomes. These studies are designed to test causal hypotheses and to measure the efficacy of health interventions.
Related Terms
- 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 health problems.
- Public Health: The science and art of preventing disease, prolonging life, and promoting health through the organized efforts and informed choices of society, organizations, public and private, communities and individuals.
- Risk Factor: An aspect of personal behavior or lifestyle, an environmental exposure, or a hereditary characteristic that is associated with an increase in the occurrence of a particular disease, injury, or other health condition.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Epidemiological study
- Wikipedia's article - Epidemiological study
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