An introduction to genetic epidemiology

Genetic epidemiology is a rapidly developing field that has acquired a central role in modern biomedical science. Driven by fast paced technological advances arising from the sequencing of the human genome and the rolling-out of these technologies into population based studies, remarkable advances have occurred recently in our ability to detect genetic polymorphisms which contribute to susceptibility to complex human disease. Epidemiologists and public health students who in the past only had to learn a minimum of genetics are now required to acquire more detailed knowledge, yet until now there has been no text set at the appropriate introductory level.

Written by leading international experts to provide an introduction to genetic epidemiology, the book begins with a primer in human molecular genetics (requiring no prior specialist knowledge) and then examines all the standard methods in population genetics and genetic epidemiology required for an adequate grounding in the field. Among much else, it contains discussion of the public health aspects of the new genetics, and of epidemiology methods for studying genes and environmental factors in complex diseases.

Supplemented by a glossary and in chapter guides to further reading, this introduction to genetic epidemiology will be widely welcomed by teachers and students on a burgeoning number of courses across the world.