Epidemiology: Principles and Practical Guidelines

About this book

• lllumination of each step of the research process demystifies practical aspects of producing scientific evidence
• A step-by-step approach allows readers to develop, implement, interpret, and report epidemiological research
• Integration of theory, practice, and ethics prepares readers to become conscientious researchers
• Discussions of contemporary approaches and topics alongside emerging paradigm shifts situates readers at the forefront of epidemiological research

This textbook presents epidemiology in a practical manner, contextualized with discussions of theory and ethics, so that students and professionals from all academic backgrounds may develop a deep appreciation for how to conduct and interpret epidemiological research. Readers will develop skills to:

· Search for and appraise literature critically
· Develop important research questions
· Design, plan, and implement studies to address those questions
· Develop proposals to obtain funding
· Perform and interpret fundamental statistical estimations, tests,and models
· Consider the ethical implications of all stages of research
· Report findings in publications
· Advocate for change in the public health setting

Epidemiology is and will remain a discipline in motion, and this textbook aims at reflecting this dynamism and keeping pace with its momentum. This textbook is not only a classroom tool with high utility but also an essential reference and guide for those engaging in research involving human subjects.

Table of Contents

Preface

Part I Introduction

1 Definition and Scope of Epidemiology
2 Basic Concepts in Epidemiology
3 Roots and Future of Epidemiology

Part II Study Design

4 General Study Objectives
5 The Specific Aims
6 General Study Designs
7 Study Size Planning
8 Sponsoring and Stakeholder Involvement
9 The Recruitment and Enrollment Plan
10 The Measurement Plan
11 The Quality Assurance and Control Plan
12 The Data Management Plan
13 The Analysis Plan
14 Ethics Support

Part III Study Conduct

15 Training and Study Preparations
16 Managing the Informed Consent Process
17 Accrual, Retention and Adherence
18 Questionnaires
19 Maintaining Data Integrity
20 Data Cleaning
21 Good Clinical Practice

Part IV: Study Analysis

22 Statistical Estimation
23 Statistical Testing
24 Statistical Modeling
25 Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses
26 The Ethics of Study Analysis

Part V Study Reporting

27 Interpretation of Findings
28 Scientific Writing
29 Reporting Data Quality
30 Dissemination to Stakeholders
31 The Ethics of Study Reporting

Bibliography
Subject Index