Data collection in epidemiology can occur through various methods:
- Surveys: Questionnaires administered to a sample population to gather information on health behaviors, exposures, and outcomes. - Registries: Systematic collections of data about particular diseases (e.g., cancer registries) or conditions. - Electronic Health Records (EHRs): Digital versions of patients' paper charts, which provide comprehensive health information. - Laboratory Data: Results from diagnostic tests and screenings. - Geographical Information Systems (GIS): Tools that analyze spatial and geographic data to identify patterns and trends in disease distribution.