Epidemiological Analysis

Diabetes Epidemiology
September 29, 2014NUR/408
Abstract
The following analysis of diabetes is intended to show the role of epidemiology in the surveillance and prevention of diabetes within the African American community. The examination defines and shows the purpose of epidemiology as well as the tools utilized in the study of the disease. This includes the epidemiological triangle which assists in outlining the levels of prevention for diabetes within the African American community.
Diabetes is a serious problem in the African American community. According to Bailey(2007) diabetes is considered the fifth leading cause of death for African Americans between the ages of 45 and 64. The diabetes problem is also the third leading cause of death for individuals over the age of 65 (Bailey, 2007, p. 1). The seriousness of these statistics shows that diabetes is a disease requiring significant attention in the African American community. Epidemiological studies are needed in order to direct healthcare in the African American community and to provide effective interventions designed to reducing the prevalence and incidence rates of diabetes amongst African Americans.
Definition and Purpose of Study
The purpose of epidemiology is to study disease and as a tool for community health.
The triangle is defined by three sides including host, agent and environment. In the case of the diabetes study, the host is the African American of Cumberland County suffering from diabetes. The agent or cause of the disease is easily determined through the use of the triangle to be sedentary lifestyle and poor health caused from diet and weight gain. (Mozaffarian et al ,2009) In a study of lifestyle factors, individuals who had high levels of exercise, healthy diet, did not smoke, and consumed alcohol in moderation exhibited an 82% lower rate of diabetes. (Mozaffarian et al,