Week 1 Discussion: Epidemiology and Population Health

Reflect on your nursing practice for a moment. If you could wipe out one illness, what would it be? How would that impact not just an individual patient, but your entire patient population? What would be the long-term benefits of eliminating that one illness?

The eradication of smallpox by 1979 provides an excellent example of this scenario. This eradication came about as a result of global collaborative efforts involving many countries and organizations, as well as the application of epidemiologic methods. In spite of high initial financial costs, it is estimated that millions of dollars continue to be saved around the world each year as a result of the eradication of this disease.

The eradication of smallpox illustrates the rich history of epidemiology and demonstrates the cost/benefits and implications of improving health at the population level. The application of epidemiologic methods and principles to other critical population health issues continues to play an essential role in improving health and health outcomes.

For this Discussion, you will identify a current population health problem, and you will examine how, and if, the problem is being addressed through the application of epidemiologic principles. You will also discuss the cost-effectiveness of dealing with the problem at the population level.

• Review the Learning Resources, focusing on the smallpox epidemic of the 1960s and 1970s and how health organizations applied principles of epidemiology to eradicate this disease.
• In light of this example, consider the cost effectiveness of addressing smallpox at the population level.
• Using the Learning Resources, research a current population health problem (local or global). Select one on which to focus for this Discussion.
• Think about how principles of epidemiology are being applied—or could be applied—to address the problem.
• What lessons from the use of epidemiology in the eradication of smallpox might be applicable to this selected problem? What are the financial benefits of addressing this issue at the population level as opposed to the individual level?

Post a cohesive response that addresses the following:

• Briefly summarize your selected population health problem and describe how principles of epidemiology are being applied—or could be applied—to address the problem.
• Are there any lessons learned from the use of epidemiology in the eradication of smallpox that can be applied to your selected problem?
• Evaluate the cost effectiveness of addressing this health problem at the population level versus the individual level.

1. Word Count: 300 – 350 words

2. Please APA formatting and in-text citation needed.

3. Include at least 2 or 3 scholarly sources for your evidence, not public websites and not than 5 years old.