Several key patterns of distribution are studied in epidemiology, including:
1. Geographical Distribution: This involves understanding where diseases occur. It can indicate if a disease is confined to specific areas or widespread. For instance, malaria is prevalent in tropical and subtropical regions.
2. Temporal Distribution: This examines changes in disease frequency over time, including short-term outbreaks and long-term trends. Seasonal patterns, such as influenza peaking in winter, are examples.
3. Demographic Distribution: This looks at the distribution of disease among different groups defined by age, sex, race, socioeconomic status, etc. For example, certain cancers may be more common in older adults.
4. Behavioral Distribution: This pattern considers how lifestyle and behaviors influence disease distribution. Smoking, for example, is a major risk factor for lung cancer.
