What is "environmental epidemiology"?

Environmental epidemiology is defined as the study of how environmental factors affect the health of populations. This field explores the relationship between various environmental exposures—such as air and water quality, chemicals, and biological agents—and the occurrence of diseases in communities or populations. By analyzing data from different environments and health outcomes, researchers can identify risk factors and potential protective factors related to environmental conditions.

This focus on the population level distinguishes environmental epidemiology from other areas that might consider health impacts without accounting for the broader environmental context, such as studies focusing solely on genetics, urban health, or social influences. These latter aspects, while important, do not encompass the primary concern of environmental epidemiology, which is rooted in understanding how the environment contributes to health disparities and overall public health.