From Pdhpe Magdalene

Health Status: a term used to describe the state of an individual/community. Measured against an identifiable standard

Contents 1 Role of Epidemiology 2 =Measures Of Epidemiology 2.1 What can Epidemiology Tell Us? 2.2 Who uses Epidemiology? 2.3 Do they measure everything about health status?

Role of Epidemiology

Epidemiology = “The study of patterns of health and the distribution and frequency of disease, illness and injury in a society.

=Measures Of Epidemiology

morbidity -

mortality -

infant mortality - the number of deaths in the first year of life per 1000 births.

life expectancy - the number of years of life remaining at any given age. This is normally reported from birth. Australia's life expectancy at birth is 83 years for females and 78.1 years for males (from 2006 AIHW report).

What can Epidemiology Tell Us?

	Monitor major causes of sickness and death (morbidity and mortality)
	Identify areas that need attention
	Determine priority areas for government funding
	Monitor use of health facilities
	Evaluate effectiveness of programs

Who uses Epidemiology?

	Policy developers in the government
	Manufacturers of health products
	Providers of health services
	Individuals

Do they measure everything about health status?

epidemiology fails to:

	Explain why health inequities exist
	Recognise the sociocultural influences on health behaviours
	Provide a holistic approach to health
	Focus on all components or dimensions of health