Introduction to Epidemiology: PHC131
ASSIGNMENT COVER SHEET
Course name: Introduction to Epidemiology
Course code: PHC131
CRN: 34976
Assignment title or task: In a short essay, please answer the following question:
What public health or/and epidemiologic achievements have occurred to improve the quality of life worldwide?
Please, support your answer with some examples and references
Student name: XXXX
Student ID # XXXX
Submission date: XXXX
Instructor name Dr. Mohammed Shameel O Grade …… out of 10
Guidelines:
• Use this Word Document.
• Complete student’s information on the first page of the document.
• Start your writing from the next page (page 3)
• Font should be 12 Times New Roman
• Color should be Black
• Line spacing should be 1.5
• AVOID PLAGIARISM (>25% – zero grade)
• Use reliable reference (References should be written in APA format)
• Write the CRN and instructor name correctly.
• Due date of Submission: Saturday 20th May 2023 at 11:59 pm
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In the past century, public health and epidemiologic achievements have significantly improved the quality of life worldwide. Many public health interventions and programs have been implemented to combat diseases and prevent deaths. Some notable achievements include the eradication of smallpox, the development of vaccines against many infectious diseases, the introduction of water treatment and sanitation systems, and the reduction of tobacco use.
One of the most significant public health achievements in history was the eradication of smallpox. The World Health Organization (WHO) led a global campaign to eradicate the disease, which involved mass vaccination campaigns and surveillance systems. The last case of smallpox was reported in 1977, and the disease was officially declared eradicated in 1980. This achievement has saved millions of lives and demonstrates the power of public health interventions.
Another notable achievement is the development of vaccines against many infectious diseases, including measles, polio, and tetanus. Vaccines have been critical in reducing the burden of infectious diseases worldwide, and many lives have been saved through their use. The introduction of routine childhood immunization programs has been particularly effective in preventing the spread of diseases and reducing mortality rates.
Water treatment and sanitation systems have also played a significant role in improving public health. Access to clean water and proper sanitation facilities has been shown to reduce the incidence of waterborne diseases such as cholera and typhoid fever. The implementation of these systems has improved the health and wellbeing of millions of people worldwide.
Finally, the reduction of tobacco use has been another significant public health achievement. Smoking is a major risk factor for many chronic diseases, including lung cancer, heart disease, and stroke. Public health campaigns and policies aimed at reducing tobacco use, such as tobacco taxes and smoking bans, have been successful in decreasing the prevalence of smoking in many countries.
Public health and epidemiologic achievements have significantly improved the quality of life worldwide. The eradication of smallpox, the development of vaccines, the introduction of water treatment and sanitation systems, and the reduction of tobacco use are just a few examples of the many achievements that have saved lives and improved health outcomes. These achievements demonstrate the importance of public health interventions and the potential for further progress in improving public health in the future.
References
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2020). Achievements in Public Health, 1900-2019: Control of Infectious Diseases. https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/69/wr/mm6940a5.htm
World Health Organization. (2021). Water, Sanitation and Hygiene. https://www.who.int/water_sanitation_health/publications/factsheets/en/
World Health Organization. (2021). Tobacco. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/tobacco