Fundamentals of Epidemiology: Population, Health, and Prevention
1) Why Study Epidemiology?
Epidemiology studies the distribution and frequency of disease in a community to control or eradicate it. It compares frequencies, quantified by statistics, using a method similar to the scientific method.
2) Scientific Method Steps
The scientific method has four steps:
- Observation: Analyzing a patient’s physical and mental aspects, including symptoms.
- Hypothesis Formulation: Developing possible illnesses and causes.
- Verification: Conducting studies for diagnosis.
- Conclusion:
Cancer Types, Symptoms, Prevention, and Risk Factors
Breast Cancer
Symptoms
- Nodule in the breast
- Changes in breast skin texture
- Asymmetry
- Retracted nipples
- Changes in breast size or shape
- Nipple discharge
Prevention
- Reduce animal fat consumption
- Weight control
- Regular self-exams and medical check-ups
- Avoid breast trauma
Treatment
- Surgery
- Chemotherapy
- Radiation
- Mammography
- Mastectomy
Risk Factors
- Family history of inflammatory or chronic lesions
- Early menstruation and late menopause
Uterine Cancer
Symptoms
- Heavy or irregular menstrual bleeding
- Difficulty urinating
- Vaginal infections
- Pelvic
Chronic Diseases: Hypertension, Diabetes, Cholesterol & Cardiovascular Diseases
Etiology: In medicine, etiology refers to the study of disease causes. Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is incredibly common. But what exactly is hypertension? How does it relate to physical inactivity, obesity, and poor diet? This section will explore these questions. Let’s start by understanding blood pressure mechanisms. Blood pumped by the heart travels through arteries, veins, and capillaries to all body tissues and organs. This involves two phases: systole (heart contraction, pumping
Read MoreWeight Management Tips and Tricks
Weight Management Tips and Tricks
Tricks to Manage Hunger
- If you feel hungry, count to 1,000. You’ll likely realize it’s not worth overeating.
- Take a sip of water with every bite of food to feel full faster.
- If you’re experiencing anxiety-related cravings, try tasting a small amount of food and spitting it out. Repeat as needed.
- Brush your teeth or take a bath when you crave food to discourage eating.
- If you have a family meal planned, consider eating lightly the day before.
- Cut food into small pieces
Pillars of Health: Lifestyle, Nutrition, and Well-being
1. What is Health?
Health is a state of equilibrium encompassing physical, mental, and social well-being.
Physical Well-being
It results from a balanced diet and personal care habits, including healthy activities without unnecessary risks.
Mental Well-being
It is based on self-acceptance, the ability to convey feelings, and the attitude to address life’s challenges.
Social Well-being
It is based on the ability to interact and share aspects of life.
Health and illness are influenced by several factors:
- Genetic
- Biological
- Environmental
- Personal
2.
Read MoreCommon Infectious Diseases and Substance Abuse Overview
Common Infectious Diseases
Chickenpox
Agent: Varicella-zoster virus (herpesvirus family).
Symptoms: 14-18 day incubation period, mild fever, rash starting on the trunk, spreading to the face, neck, limbs, and scalp.
Contagion: Direct contact.
Measles
Agent: Paramyxovirus.
Symptoms: 10-12 day incubation period, pre-eruptive photophobia, mouth staining, followed by a skin rash.
Contagion: Direct contact.
Rubella
Agent: Rubella virus.
Symptoms: 1-2 week incubation period, swollen neck glands, cold-like symptoms,