High-risk groups are identified through various methodologies in epidemiology. These include:
1. Descriptive Epidemiology: This involves describing the distribution of diseases by person, place, and time. By analyzing this data, epidemiologists can identify patterns and trends that indicate high-risk groups.
2. Analytical Epidemiology: This involves comparing groups to determine the cause of disease. Techniques such as case-control studies and cohort studies are often used to identify risk factors and, consequently, high-risk groups.
3. Screening and Surveillance: Regular screening and continuous surveillance can help identify populations that are at higher risk for certain conditions. This is especially useful for chronic diseases like diabetes and cancer.
