Surviving “Risk Factor Frenzy”: The Perils of Incorrectly Applying Epidemiological Research in Health Education and Promotion

Abstract

In health education and promotion, “risk factors” for disease gathered from epidemiological research form the basis from which the majority of recommendations to individuals for lifestyle change are made. Unfortunately, many health practitioners are unaware that this type of research was never intended to be applied to individuals. The result is ongoing public confusion and anxiety concerning health recommendations and a loss of credibility for health professionals. This article: 1) briefly reviews the most commonly encountered limitations inherent in epidemiological research; 2) explores the problems and potential negative consequences of incorrectly applying epidemiological research in health education and promotion; and 3) makes recommendations to help health practitioners more skillfully interpret and incorporate into their work findings from epidemiological research.