Main description:

"The contents are not specifically nursing orientated but very neatly balanced to be of relevance to all working in the public health arena...the book is well written, the language is clear, and the concepts clearly and simply explained and easily understood." - "Journal of Biosocial Science". What are epidemiology and public health? What is the nature of public health evidence and knowledge? What strategies can be used to protect and improve health? The second edition of this bestselling book provides a multi-professional introduction to the key concepts in public health and epidemiology. It presents a broad, interactive account of contemporary public health, placing an emphasis on developing public health skills and stimulating the reader to think through the issues for themselves. The new edition features additional material on: Historical perspectives; public health skills for practice; evaluation of public health interventions; the nature of evidence and public health knowledge; and, translating policy and evidence into practice.
"An Introduction to Public Health and Epidemiology" is key reading for students of public health and healthcare professionals, including: nurses, doctors, community development workers and public health workers.

Contents:

Introduction Lessons from the history of public health and epidemiology for the 21st century Sources and critical use of health information Measuring the frequency of health problems Measures of risk Epidemiological study designs Weighing up the evidence from epidemiological studies The determinants of health and disease Health promotion Health needs analysis Principles of screening Changing public health: What impacts on public health practice?