What is the Role of Epidemiology in Cancer Research?

Epidemiology plays a crucial role in understanding cancer. It helps in:

- Identifying risk factors and establishing causal relationships. For instance, epidemiological studies have established smoking as a major risk factor for lung cancer.
- Monitoring trends in cancer incidence and mortality, which aids in public health planning and resource allocation.
- Evaluating the effectiveness of cancer prevention and control programs. This includes assessing the impact of vaccination programs, screening initiatives, and public health campaigns.