Zusammenfassung der Ressource
Epidemiology
- Definition
- Gathering and studying of information about
illness, disease and death within certain
populations.
- What does it tell us?
- Incidence (how many new cases are
occurring) of morbidity (sickness) and
mortality (death).
- Prevalence of morbidity and mortality (how
many existing cases are occurring).
- The extent of the problem
- Factors that are directly linked to morbidity and mortality.
- What doesn't epidemiology tell us?
- Tells us little about the severity of
illnesses and how this impacts upon a
person's quality of life.
- Is sometimes lacking or non-existent on certain health
issues for which gathering detailed information is difficult
e.g mental illness.
- Doesn't address the reasons why health inequities
exist.
- Often neglects other factors such as cultural, social
and economic factors
- How can we use epidemiology to improve the health
status of Australians?
- To identify health inequalities between sub-
populations
- To establish priorities, enabling efficient
use of funds.
- To development preventative programs and monitor
health care services.
- To monitor and evaluate programs.