HCM 3304: Principles of Epidemiology

Description

Examines the genetic and environmental determinants and distribution patterns of disease among human populations. Methods for developing and testing approaches for disease prevention and control are also discussed.

Objectives

1. Examine key indicators of morbidity and mortality in communities through the use of ratios, proportions, and rates.
2. Employ direct and indirect methods for the adjustment of rates in epidemiology.
3. Create a Clinical Life Table for use in epidemiological research and investigation of community health issues.
4. Predict the probability of key health-related events in a community.
5. Describe the essential elements of randomized clinical trials, cohort studies, case-controlled studies and cross-sectional studies in epidemiology.
6. Assess key measures of association in the identification of risk factors for diseases and disorders in a community.
7. Examine important sources of bias in epidemiological research, considering the possible consequences of such bias for interpretation of findings and decision making.
8. Summarize the key criteria for causality of associations in epidemiology.
9. Explain the utilization of epidemiologic data in the field of genetics.
10. Discuss the use and relative merits of community health screening as a component of epidemiology.
11. Describe the importance of epidemiology for local, state, national and international health policy-making.
12. Articulate the key ethical issues which are associated with epidemiology and the use of epidemiological data today.

PreRequisites

1. HCM 1301
2. HCM 3002

Textbook(s)

* Disclaimer: Textbooks listed are based on the last open revision of the course. Prior revisions and future revisions may use different textbooks. To verify textbook information, view the course syllabus or contact Student Services at students@waldorf.edu