Epidemiological Research
Once the need for research on a topic has been identified, epidemiological research
involves understanding the concepts of epidemiology, planning an appropriate study
design, data collection, statistical analysis, and interpretation of findings toward conclusions
to improve health. A study can be planned with or without human participants.
Data reported by hospitals and laboratories to health departments can also be
used. Genetic and molecular tools have increased the chances of identifying the source
of disease in less time. The research techniques and lessons learned in the research of
infectious diseases have been applied most recently to studying chronic diseases. An
interdisciplinary collaboration is almost always essential for the completion of a successful
study. Consent, ethics, and data privacy are other important components to
consider in epidemiological research.