Epidemiology is the study of the distribution and determinants of health-related events in populations. It provides essential data for public health decision-making, disease prevention, and healthcare planning.

1. Epidemiology in Health:
Learning Objectives for
MBBS
Understanding Disease Patterns, Prevention & Public
Health Applications
Prof Dr Nosheen Zaidi
MBBS DHPM MPH ACMED FCPS

2. 2
Core Learning Objectives
• Understand fundamental epidemiological concepts
• Identify disease determinants and risk factors
• Apply epidemiological methods in clinical practice
• Develop skills for outbreak investigation and surveillance

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Introduction to Epidemiology
• Definition and scope of epidemiology
• Role in public health and disease prevention
• Key terms: incidence, prevalence, morbidity, mortality

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Epidemiological Study Designs
• Descriptive studies (case reports, case series)
• Analytical studies (cohort, case-control, cross-sectional)
• Experimental studies (randomized controlled trials)
• Strengths and limitations of each approach

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Measures of Disease Frequency &
Association
• Incidence vs. prevalence
• Relative risk (RR) and odds ratio (OR)
• Attributable risk and risk reduction
• Importance in clinical decision-making

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Screening & Diagnostic Tests
• Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), negative
predictive value (NPV)
• Criteria for a good screening test
• Role of epidemiology in preventive medicine

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Outbreak Investigation & Public Health
Surveillance
• Steps in outbreak investigation
• Epidemic curves and disease transmission modes
• Public health reporting and response strategies
• Role of WHO and national health agencies

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Epidemiology & Public Health Policy
• Role of epidemiology in health policy development
• Impact on vaccination programs and disease prevention
• Application in emerging and re-emerging infectious diseases

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Conclusion & Future Directions
• Epidemiology as a cornerstone of evidence-based medicine
• Emerging trends in digital epidemiology and big data analytics
• Continued importance in addressing global health challenges