What Does an Epidemiologist Study?

Epidemiologists have at minimum a bachelor's degree, and most have an advanced degree such as a Master of Public Health, Master of Science, Doctorate of Public Health or Doctorate of Philosophy degree. The word "epidemiology" is derived from the Greek language and literally means "the study of what befalls man." According to the Council of State and Territorial Epidemiologists, epidemiologists study topics including diseases and vital statistics that affect the health of the population.

Adverse Events

• Adverse events are unexpected or severe side effects that may occur after a vaccination or use of a medication, and are studied by epidemiologists to determine the safety and effectiveness of medical products.

Births and Deaths

• Births and deaths, as well as marriages and adoptions, are vital statistics studied by epidemiologists to examine trends in fertility, mortality and in households.

Chronic Diseases

• Chronic diseases such as cancer, heart disease and diabetes are studied by epidemiologists to determine what causes the conditions and ways to prevent complications.

Infectious Diseases

• Epidemiologists study all types of infectious diseases, such as HIV and influenza, and collect and analyze laboratory results, geographic distribution and severity of the illnesses.

Populations

• General statistics on populations, such as age and race, geographic distribution and population density and percentage vaccinated are data studied by epidemiologists.

Risk Factors

• Risk factors for certain health conditions, such as high blood pressure, obesity and lack of prenatal health care are studied by epidemiologists to help get care and resources to people at risk.