Fundamentals of Epidemiology for the Audiologist

Abstract

Purpose Epidemiology is the study of the distribution and determinants of disease and other health-related events in populations. An understanding of epidemiology among audiologists is important for ear and hearing health care practice. This tutorial presents an overview of the fundamental concepts of epidemiology for the practicing audiologist and audiology students. Method The authors provide an overview of epidemiology and focus on its applicability to audiology. The most common epidemiologic study designs, measures of occurrence, and measures of association are highlighted and discussed. Concepts related to p values, confidence intervals, confounding, and bias are introduced. Finally, the authors discuss screening as a means to control adverse hearing health outcomes. Conclusions Epidemiologic approaches are of value to the audiologist involved in the evidence-based decision processes of planning, monitoring, and treating individuals with ear and hearing problems. For audiologists to make practice recommendations based on epidemiologic data, they need insight into epidemiologic study design and interpretation of data from these studies. Understanding the fundamentals of epidemiology and applying epidemiologic principles to the clinical practice of audiology can increase the quality of care individuals receive.