501 FETP: Principles of Epidemiology
Objectives:
To introduce the basic concepts and methods of epidemiology, so that at the end of the course student will be able to:
*understand and describe the basic epidemiological concepts and terminology
calculate, interpret and use measures of disease burden
*understand the principles and methodology of different study designs and will be able to appreciate the strengths and
limitations of each
*develop the skills to apply epidemiological principles in analysing a health problem
interpret Demographic / Health information system data in public health perspective
*identify and deal with random and systematic errors when interpreting epidemiological data for causal association
*design, carry out, analyse, interpret and report investigations of disease outbreak while taking/suggesting most
appropriate control measures
*appreciate the principles and practice of disease screening
Course Outline:
Models of disease causation and determinants of health and disease
Uses of Epidemiology
Measures of disease burden: including measures of disease frequency, effect and impact
Principles, methodology and analysis of epidemiological studies including Descriptive, Analytic and Experimental study
designs
Interpretation of epidemiological studies/data focusing on issues related to causality, random errors, bias and
confounding.
Designing, conducting, analysing, interpreting and reporting investigations of disease outbreaks
Research methodology
Principles of Infectious Disease epidemiology
Screening, Health Management Information System and Surveillance systems
Miscellaneous current topics of epidemiologic interest
Teaching Strategy:
Teaching will consist of a series of lectures covering the topic being presented. The theory lectures will be strengthened by
practical sessions in which students will be working in small groups to practice the concepts presented in theory lectures.
Course Assessment:
The course will contribute 300 marks to the final evaluation. Assessment will be based on two written MCQ papers i.e. One
paper in 1st mid term (40%=120 marks) and Paper I of 1st term examination (60%=180 marks).
It will also contribute a major portion of papers in final comprehensive examination.
