Epidemiology

Epidemiology is the study of the distribution and determinants of health-related states or events (including disease), and the application of this study to the control of diseases and other health problems. It is the cornerstone of public health, informing public health policy decisions and evidence-based practice by identifying risk factors for disease and targets for preventive healthcare. By understanding how diseases spread, epidemiology also helps protect against bio-terrorism and other forms of public health emergencies.