Epidemiology
Epidemiology is the scientific study of health-related events in specific populations.
The results of an epidemiological study are used to plan and evaluate strategies for the prevention and management of detrimental health events, in addition to the care of patients already suffering due to such events. Epidemiologists are often employed by government agencies, in order to improve the health of the population as well as to consider the economic impacts of health care responses. Therefore, epidemiology requires an understanding of multiple fields beyond that of health, such as politics, economy and sociology.
Within oncology, epidemiology plays an important role in identifying potential causes and risk factors for multiple cancers. Studies have identified several lifestyle factors that can increase the risk for developing cancer, such as smoking and obesity, as well as factors that can decrease the risk, such as longer leisure time.
Epidemiological studies can also focus on the treatment of cancer, specifically patient inequalities and diagnostic opportunities. Often studies such as these focus on prevalence across multiple populations. Cancer epidemiology is a fast-growing field of research with many institutions creating specific units for this area, such as University College London (UK/ ECHO), Oxford University (UK/ CEU) and The Institute of Cancer Research (London, UK/ CEPRU).