Epidemiology
In order to understand health, one must realize that there are a variety of significant factors. Geographically, a disease may be more prominent in a certain location compared to others. As an epidemiologist, one must ask their self why that is occurring. They may draw conclusions based on economics, overall health, or social status. It is obvious that those who reside in a poor area are less likely to receive the healthcare that they need. The advanced technology that is readily available in first world countries may be unheard of in others. Likewise, if you were raised in a family that did not promote simple hygiene tasks like regular hand washing or bathing, you are more receptive to disease. Epidemiologists must take all of these factors into play when trying to track the origin of the disease they are investigating. The best way to protect yourself from disease and promote good health is education. Education opens doors to a better job, which allows you more power in deciding on healthcare. It also makes an individual more aware of pressing health concerns within their community. Oakes, pers.comm. October 1, 2014.
When I think of epidemiology, I think of the countless factors that can play into the spread of an illness. No matter the level a person looks at a disease, whether large scale or small, there will always be contributing components that influence the advancement. Recently, with Ebola being diagnosed in Texas, we can simply compare the effects that is has caused in the USA to West Africa. In Africa, Ebola has had a 50% case fatality rate and has spread immensely since the beginning of the outbreak in March. However, in the US, (despite those with the obsessive assumption that Ebola is going to wipe out our population) the virus has not been even half as concerning. At first glance, many would say the lack of linkage to proper healthcare is indisputably the reason this difference can be seen. While they are not wrong, they failed...