epidemiology
/ˌɛpɪdiːmiˈɒlədʒi/
Definition
The branch of medicine that deals with the incidence, distribution, and possible control of diseases and other factors relating to health in a population.
Etymology
Derived from the Greek 'epidēmios' (among the people) and the suffix '-logy' (study of). It entered English in the mid-19th century to describe the scientific study of epidemics.
In the news
The term is used here to categorize a field of medical study and professional specialization focused on public health patterns. It is relevant to the article's systematic review of mental health and substance use trends across specific geographic populations.
Mental Health and Substance Use in Rural and Northern British Columbia: A Systematic Review of Prevalence, Risk Factors, and Intervention Effectiveness
Read the full article ↗Cureus