Measuring and describing disease

Question 1

What is the exposure?

Answer 1

The variable trying to be associated with a change in health status

Question 2

What is the outcome?

Answer 2

Associated change in health status

Question 3

Define epidemiology.

Answer 3

The study of the distribution and determinants of health-related states/events in specified populations, and the application of this study to the control of health problems

Question 4

What is a primary intervention approach?

Answer 4

Before disease onset

Preventing disease through control of exposure to risk factors

Question 5

What is a secondary intervention approach?

Answer 5

Slows progression

The application of available measures to detect early departures from health and to introduce appropriate treatment and interventions

Question 6

What is a tertiary intervention approach?

Answer 6

Enables return to function

The application of measures to reduce/eliminate long term impairments and disabilities, minimising suffering caused by existing departures from good health and to promote the patients adjustments to their condition

Question 7

What are the stages of the epidemiological transition model?

Answer 7

1. Pestilence and famine
2. Receding pandemics
3. Degenerative and man-made diseases
4. Delayed degenerative diseases and emerging infections