Autoimmunity

Epidemiology and Prevention

Epidemiology is the theoretical foundation we use to describe the occurrence of diseases and the correlation between living conditions, environmental conditions, hereditary conditions and health. Within the field of epidemiology, we also use quantitative methods to evaluate the effect of different treatments and preventative activities.The methodology used is designed to provide valid (unbiased) information from groups of individuals, for the purpose of testing hypotheses and finding characteristics in the health of the population. Epidemiological data provides the quantitative basis for public health policy and clinical practice, and is the foundation for preventive measures in public health work.

Epidemiology today constitutes a significant part of medical scientific activity. Epidemiological methods are associated with the planning, implementation, statistical analysis and interpretation of a significant part of surveys within social medicine.