AOCOPM 2023 Midyear Educational Conference-259668

259668 - Article 25

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The AOCOPM 2023 Midyear Educational Conference covered key concepts in epidemiology, led by Murray R. Berkowitz. The session reviewed basic epidemiological principles, such as disease frequency measures, risk assessment, and prevention strategies. <br /><br />Objectives emphasized understanding disease measures like incidence, prevalence, and attack rates, alongside positive and negative predictive values, sensitivity, and specificity. The conference also covered screening test utilities, explaining their calculation and importance in health care settings. Different types of prevention were discussed: primary (disease prevention), secondary (early detection), and tertiary (reducing the impact of disease). <br /><br />A significant focus was on epidemic investigations using epidemic curves and how outbreak data can guide public health interventions. Moreover, the concepts of disease transmission were highlighted, explaining the roles of host, agent, and environment in disease spread.<br /><br />Strategies were provided on using epidemiologic data effectively to identify factors influencing disease distribution and to improve public health policies and surveillance. Differences between morbidity and mortality rates, and the use of data to plan health services, were key points.<br /><br />Regarding study design, the presentation differentiated among randomized clinical trials, cohort studies, and case-control studies, while discussing their applications and limitations. The importance of ethical considerations and consent in trials was stressed.<br /><br />Finally, calculations of risk—both absolute and relative—as well as odds ratios, were taught as vital tools for assessing and comparing disease data. The significance of understanding "causation" in epidemiology was underscored, highlighting statistical association patterns and considering alternate explanations.<br /><br />In conclusion, the session provided a comprehensive review of epidemiological principles and practices, equipping participants with necessary analytical skills to assess and manage public health challenges effectively.

Keywords

Epidemiology

Disease Frequency

Risk Assessment

Prevention Strategies

Screening Tests

Epidemic Investigations

Disease Transmission

Study Design

Risk Calculations

Public Health