This document discusses epidemiology and its components and uses. It defines epidemiology as "the study of the distribution and determinants of health related states or events in specified populations, and the application of this study to the control of health problems." The key components of epidemiology are disease frequency, disease distribution, and determinants of disease. The aims of epidemiology are to describe disease distribution and magnitude, identify etiological factors, and provide data to plan, implement and evaluate prevention and control services. Epidemiology helps set healthcare priorities and is the cornerstone of public health policy.