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 textbookis not only a classroom tool with high utility but also an essential reference and guide for those engaging in research involving human subjects.

Inhalt

Preface.- Part I Introduction.- Definition and Scope of Epidemiology.- Basic Concepts in Epidemiology.- Roots and Future of Epidemiology.- Part II Study Design.- General Study Objectives.- The Specific Aims.- General Study Designs.- Study Size Planning. Sponsoring and Stakeholder Involvement.- The Recruitment and Enrollment Plan.- The Measurement Plan.- The Quality Assurance and Control Plan.- The Data Management Plan.- The Analysis Plan.- Ethics Support.- Part III Study Conduct.- Training and Study Preparations.- Managing the Informed Consent Process.- Accrual, Retention and Adherence.- Questionnaires.- Maintaining Data Integrity.- Data Cleaning.- Good Clinical Practice.- Part IV: Study Analysis.- Statistical Estimation.- Statistical Testing.- Statistical Modeling.- Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses.- The Ethics of Study Analysis.- Part V Study Reporting.- Interpretation of Findings.- Scientific Writing.- Reporting Data Quality.- Dissemination to Stakeholders.- The Ethics ofStudy Reporting.- Bibliography.- Subject Index.