Disussion Board

This discussion introduces core concepts of epidemiology and human ecology and explores how biological, environmental, and social factors interact to influence population health. Students will demonstrate their ability to synthesize foundational theory and apply epidemiologic thinking to real-world public health issues.

Part II: Foundations of Epidemiology

• Define epidemiology as presented by Friis & Sellers and other credible resources, and describe its primary purpose in public health practice.
• Discuss two (2) major uses of epidemiology (e.g., identifying determinants of disease, informing prevention strategies, shaping public health policy).
• Explain how epidemiology differs from clinical medicine in its focus on populations rather than individuals.

Part II: Human Ecology and Health

• Explain the concept of human ecology and its relevance to epidemiology.
• Describe how interactions among biological factors, human behavior, and the natural, social, and built environments influence health outcomes.
• Provide one real-world public health example that illustrates these ecological interactions.

Requirements

• Length: 400 words
• Font & Spacing: 12-point Times New Roman; Double-spaced
• Citation Style: APA 7th edition
• Use in-text citations and at least three references (include at the end of the post).