What are the main types of data sources in Epidemiology?
Epidemiological data can be obtained from a variety of sources, including:
Surveillance Systems: These systems continuously collect, analyze, and disseminate health data. Health Surveys: Structured questionnaires are used to collect data on health status, behaviors, and other variables. Administrative Data: Data collected for purposes other than research, such as billing records, which may be repurposed for epidemiological studies. Electronic Health Records (EHRs): Digital versions of patientsâ paper charts, providing comprehensive health information. Cohort Studies: Follow a group of people over time to assess how different exposures affect outcomes.
