What is the simple definition of epidemiology?

By definition, epidemiology is the study (scientific, systematic, and data-driven) of the distribution (frequency, pattern) and determinants (causes, risk factors) of health-related states and events (not just diseases) in specified populations (neighborhood, school, city, state, country, global).

How is epidemiology different from biostatistics?

Epidemiologists typically focus on pathogens and epidemics; they are concerned with specific health-related events. Biostaticians, however, focus on broader biological issues, such as those related to genetics.

Why is epidemiology and biostatistics important?

Epidemiology and biostatistics are the cornerstone of public health and preventive medicine. These practices use mathematical, scientific, and social methods to monitor disease trends and provide intervention to prevent future disease.

What is biostatistics in public health?

Merriam-Webster’s defines biostatistics as the “statistical processes and methods applied to the collection, analysis, and interpretation of biological data and especially data relating to human biology, health, and medicine.” Public health officials, health care professionals, and the scientific community rely on …

What is the modern definition of epidemiology?

Epidemiology is the study of diseases and health impacts in exposed groups of people (i.e., in populations). Epidemiology is the study of the occurrence, the spread and the pattern of disease and health impacts within a population.

What is an example of biostatistics?

For example, a biostatistician might study birth defects caused by selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors. Biostatisticians could test how exercise correlates to hypokinetic diseases. A biostatistician may investigate the harm of environmental air pollution on people’s lungs.

What is the role of epidemiology?

Epidemiology is the study of diseases in populations, investigating how, when and why they occur. The diseases studied are wide-ranging, including infectious diseases like coronavirus and non-infectious diseases like arthritis. People who work in this field are referred to as epidemiologists.

What is importance of epidemiology?

The importance of epidemiology cannot be overstated. Epidemiology saves lives and improves global, long-term health. The aims of epidemiology are to prevent and reverse negative health outcomes, and the uses of epidemiology are most important for communities that experience a lot of poverty or instability.

What is biostatistics used for?

In essence, the goal of biostatistics is to disentangle the data received and make valid inferences that can be used to solve problems in public health. Biostatistics uses the application of statistical methods to conduct research in the areas of biology, public health, and medicine.