Author Description

Abstract: Fifteen articles are presented to assist prospective authors in the experimental design, conduct, and interpretation of epidemiologic studies. The information also should aid readers of medical journals in judging the validity of the conclusions presented in published epidemiologic studies. Attention is focused on the rudiments of the epidemiological approach, its terminology, and methods, with the premise that all findings must relate to the defined population. Topics include; repeatability and v alidity; observer variation; planning and conducting an epidemiological survey; comparing relative rates; difficulties introduced by biased case selection and incomplete follow-up; and the importance of screening patients for preclinical disease. Guidance also is given concerning comparisons between communities or between individuals, and the proper and improper selection of controls. (wz).