Definitions & more Flashcards
Define epidemiology
Study of frequency, distribution and determinants of disease within a population
What is incidence?
The number of new cases of a disease within a defined population over a defined period of time
What is prevalence?
The number of existing cases of a disease within a defined population at a specific point in time
What is health?
State of complete physical, mental and social wellbeing
Not just the absence of disease
What is the effect of social class on health?
Lower social class = worse health & lower life expectancy
More unequal societies have worse health
How can incidence be decreased?
Reducing risk factors
How can incidence be increased?
Screening programmes
How can prevalence be increased?
Screening programmes & rising life expectancy
How can prevalence be decreased?
Finding cures
What effect does illness have on social obligation?
Illness allows a legitimate excuse not o fulfil social obligation/role
What type of population is in developed countries?
Ageing
Women having fewer children
People living longer
What type of population is in developing countries?
Lots of young people
