3. Specific objectives of epidemiology

Epidemiology has several objectives depending on the subject being studied and the hypothesis being tested :

  • To identify the etiology or cause of a disease and the associated risk factors (factors that increase the risk for this disease)

  • To determine/quantify the spread of a disease in a community

  • To study the natural history of a disease and its prognosis

  • To evaluate new measures to prevent and treat diseases, and new means to provide access to and dispense healthcare

  • To find strong arguments to develop healthcare policies and to make decisions that are in line with environmental problems