Epidemiology is the study (scientific, systematic, data-driven) of the distribution (frequency, pattern) and determinants (causes, risk factors) of health-related states and events (not just diseases) in specified populations (patient is community, individuals viewed collectively), and the application of (since epidemiology is a discipline within public health) this study to the control of health problems. This chapter has provided a definition of and framework for field epidemiology in a modern and evolving context. Epidemiologists who conduct field investigations are often working in a fishbowl-type of environment. Some might enlarge this de- finition to include controlled observations without manipulation of the conhtions. Field epidemiology draws on general epidemiologic principles and methods, and field epidemiologists face questions that are familiar to all epidemiologists regardless of where they work, including questions about how study methods are shaped by logistical constraints and about the amount of information necessary to recommend or take action. In addition to possible limitations in data sources, factors that pose challenges for epidemiologists during field investigations include sampling considerations, availability of specimens, effects of publicity, reluctance of persons to participate, and conflicting pressures to intervene. Delaying interventions might allow time to obtain more definitive information, but such delays also might lead to additional illness. Although this dilemma is not unique to field epidemiology within the realm of public health practice, the heightened urgency of acute situations can elevate the emotional impact on all involved parties. In these situations, investigations might be carried further than they otherwise would be. A list of these languages and contact addresses of local However, these requirements for action do not justify epidemiologic shortcuts. The GFELTP currently runs the Advanced Program, the FETP-Intermediate and the FETP-Frontline trainings in Ghana. The nurse reported two cases of severe respiratory illness (including one death) in persons who had attended the recent American Legion Convention in Philadelphia. The following is an example of a investigation that is typical of the sort of issues that we face. The constellation of problems faced by epidemiologists who investigate urgent public health problems shapes the definition of field epidemiology. term has a more specific meaning: An experiment is a set of observations, conducted un- der controlled circumstances, in which the scientist manipulates the conditions to ascer- tain what effect such manipulation has on the observations. As a consequence of this information, a massive epidemiologic investigation was immediately initiated that involved local, state, and federal public health agencies. As another example, in 2015, epidemiologists investigated the largest HIV outbreak in the United States since 1996. Often, when new diseases are detected, they are recognized in their most severe or distinctive stage, followed later by recognition of a broader spectrum of illness. These decisions are necessary to make the most effective use of public health resources, including capacities to conduct field investigations and optimize opportunities for disease prevention. We've got 1 shorthand for Canadian Field Epidemiology Program » What is the abbreviation for Canadian Field Epidemiology Program? In judging an epidemiologic field investigation, consideration should be given to the quality of the science, opportunities and constraints that shaped the context of the investigation, and judgment applied in using the findings to take public health actions. Likewise, field epidemiologists are affected by trends that influence the practice of epidemiology in general, such as public concerns about the privacy of health information, the increasing automation of health information, and the growth in use of the Internet. These tasks may be necessary to complete an objective, defensible field investigation, but each is also fraught with considerable ethical and legal overtones (see Chapter 13). The epidemiology of human communication is a rewarding and challenging field. Much of the data that epidemiologists collect comes from self-report—from answers provided by people participating in a study. Although unskilled use of this medium during an ongoing investigation can pose challenges, such as spreading misperceptions or fostering information biases, social media also can be an effective means for expanding the reach of pertinent evidence-based health messages (30). epidemiology definition: 1. the scientific study of diseases and how they are found, spread, and controlled in groups of…. Field Epidemiology is the application of epidemiologic methods to unexpected health problems when a rapid on-site investigation is necessary for timely intervention. The application period for EIS Class of 2021 is now closed. Given past experiences with influenza pandemics and severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS), detection of such events have prompted multiple field investigations. Small clusters of disease (e.g., leukemia or adverse fetal outcomes) are an example of problems that frequently generate substantial public concern. 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