Title: Epidemiologic methods : studying the occurrence of illness /
Authors: Koepsell, Thomas D.; Weiss, Noel S., 1941-
Publisher: Oxford University Press,
Year: 2003
Subjects: Epidemiology Methodology; Epidemiologic Methods
Abstract: This is a rigorous, systematic introduction to the basic concepts and practical tools of epidemiologic research. It is aimed at readers who will be conducting epidemiologic studies themselves or who need a firm grasp of epidemiologic principles in order to interpret and evaluate studies conducted by others. Besides offering clear descriptions of key concepts, the book is rich with examples illustrating how these concepts are applied. Some examples are drawn from classic studies in the field--the work of Snow, Semmelweis, Goldberger, Doll and Hill, and others--while many others concern modern-day epidemiologic studies of problems of current public health importance. Almost every chapter includes a set of exercises (with answers) to help students gain practice in applying new ideas and techniques. The book's chapters are organized around three main themes: general concepts and methods of epidemiology; major study designs; and evaluating policies and programs. Collectively, these topics form the core material for a graduate-level course or course sequence in epidemiologic methods. Both authors are experienced epidemiologic researchers and have won multiple awards for effective teaching.
Contents: Ch. 1. Introduction: an epidemic of blindness in young children -- Ch. 2. Diseases and populations -- Ch. 3. Disease frequency: basics -- Ch. 4. Disease frequency: advanced -- Ch. 5. Overview of study designs -- Ch. 6. Sources of data on disease occurrence -- Ch. 7. Person, place, and time -- Ch. 8. Inferring a causal relation between exposure and disease -- Ch. 9. Measures of excess risk -- Ch. 10. Measurement error -- Ch. 11. Confounding and its control -- Ch. 12. Ecological studies -- Ch. 13. Randomized trials -- Ch. 14. Cohort studies -- Ch. 15. Case-control studies -- Ch. 16. Induction periods and latent periods -- Ch. 17. Improving the sensitivity of epidemiologic studies -- Ch. 18. Screening -- Ch. 19. Outbreak investigation by Jane Koehler and Jeffrey Duchin -- Ch. 20. Evaluating the effects of policies on health.