Epidemiological Studies - a Practical Guide

This book deals with basic issues relating to the design and implementation of an epidemiological study. It is divided into sections addressing topics such as design, survey information, analysis, interpretation, and constraints (ethical and cost issues). Alan Silman is a Professor of Rheumatic Epidemiology at the University of Manchester Medical School. His stated objective was to provide a resource to allow individuals with a limited epidemiological background to complete studies while preserving validity. The book is aimed at health professionals with no background in epidemiology, and introductory public health students. The focus appears to be on providing the basic minimum to conduct a study. The information contained in the book assists in the design of a study. However, initial explanation of some terms is too brief, which is frequently rectified in later chapters. Many good examples are provided as demonstration of the concepts used, but they may not be enough to allow full understanding. When key points are made, they are presented in tabular form to reinforce their importance. The table of contents and index are adequate for the book, but it is surprising that there are no references in this book at all. This is an attempt at a comprehensive guide to epidemiological studies, with good basic information that lacks detail. This book could be an appropriate source for professionals seeking to acquaint themselves with the basics of an study, but it would be improved by providing references for further reading. It touches on some important issues that may normally not be discussed outside of a public health class. As for use in training public health professionals, itmight serve as an introductory book for an undergraduate class, but the lack of detail makes it less useful for a graduate epidemiology course.