HEALTH CARE

IN THE NEWS IS DUE BY THURSDAY READ DIRECTIONS VERY CAREFULLY250 TO 300 WORDS......

• To prepare for this assignment, keep your eyes open for an article in a news–related publication that relates to an epidemiologic topic or concept addressed in the course.
• To complete this assignment, post a comprehensive response to the following. You can post your response any time between Weeks 3 and Day 4 of Week 3.
  • Why does this topic interest you?
  • Does the topic affect your work and your lifestyle? If so, how?
  • What are the implications of the epidemiological news to the health of individuals and populations?
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• RESOURCES.......................................................................

Epidemiology for Public Health Practice
Chapter 6, "Study Designs: Ecologic, Cross-Sectional, Case-Control"The authors compare and contrast various types of observational analytic studies. The odds ratio, which is the measure of association used in case control studies, is also described.
Chapter 7, "Study Design: Cohort Studies"This chapter provides an overview of cohort studies and distinguishes them from other study designs. While a case control study begins with an outcome and seeks data on one or more exposures, cohort studies begin with an exposure and seek data on one or more outcomes. Research questions that particularly lend themselves to cohort studies are also presented. The concept of relative risk, the measure of association often used in cohort studies, is also covered in this chapter.

Optional Resources

Meirik, O. (September, 2008). Cohort and case-control studies. World Health Organization. Retrieved from: http://www.gfmer.ch/Books/Reproductive_health/Cohort_and_case_control_studies.html

Focus your attention on the "Advantages and Disadvantages of Cohort and Case-Control Studies" section of this article.