Week 2: Epidemiologic Measures and Data Sources
Learning Objectives
By the end of this week, students will be able to:

Differentiate between key epidemiologic measures of disease frequency and association (e.g., incidence, prevalence, relative risk, odds ratio).
Identify and evaluate primary and secondary data sources used in population health.
Apply epidemiologic measures to describe and analyze a selected population health problem.
Discuss the implications of epidemiologic data for evidence-based nursing practice and positive social change.

Required Readings (typical)

Course textbook (e.g., Friis & Sellers or Gordis Epidemiology – Chapter(s) on measures of disease frequency, measures of association, and data sources).
Selected articles from the Walden Library on surveillance systems, vital statistics, registries, and application of measures in nursing practice.
Resources from CDC, WHO, or Kenya Ministry of Health relevant to your topic.

Week 2 Discussion: Measuring Disease Frequency and Association in Populations
Due: Main post by Day 3; responses by Day 6
Points: 100 points (or as specified in rubric)
Instructions:
Using the population health problem you selected in Week 1 (or a closely related issue), address the following in your main post (approximately 400–600 words):

Define and differentiate incidence versus prevalence as they relate to your selected health problem. Provide current, specific rates or data for your target population where possible.
Discuss at least one measure of association (e.g., relative risk, odds ratio, attributable risk) and its relevance to understanding the determinants of your health problem.
Identify and evaluate primary and secondary data sources (e.g., vital statistics, disease registries, surveillance systems, national surveys) that could be used to obtain or calculate these measures. Discuss strengths, limitations, and potential biases, especially in diverse or resource-limited settings.
Explain how these epidemiologic measures can strengthen and support evidence-based nursing practice and contribute to addressing health equity or social determinants of health.

Support your post with at least 3–4 scholarly sources (published within the last 5–7 years) in APA 7th edition format.
Response Posts: Respond substantively to at least two colleagues by Day 6. Offer insights, ask clarifying questions, or suggest additional data sources/measures. Support each response with at least one scholarly reference.

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