epidemiologists attempt to explain the link between health and variables such as
Epidemiology
short
disease conditions in defined populations
Epidemiology is the study and analysis of the distribution and determinants of health and disease conditions in defined populations . It is the cornerstone of public health , and shapes policy decisions and evidence - based practice by identifying risk factors for disease and targets for preventive healthcare . Epidemiologists help with study design , collection , and statistical analysis of data , amend interpretation and dissemination of results ( including peer review and occasional systematic review ) . Epidemiology has helped develop methodology used in clinical research , public health studies , and , to a lesser extent , basic research in the biological sciences .