Introduction to Population Health Research

This textbook is designed to provide you, as an undergraduate student, with a comprehensive introduction to the field of population health research. This textbook will equip you with the knowledge and skills necessary to understand and engage in meaningful population health research, as well as evaluate published research. Population health research is an interdisciplinary field that examines the health outcomes of groups of individuals, including the distribution of such outcomes within the group. It encompasses a wide range of topics, from the determinants of health to the development and evaluation of interventions aimed at improving health outcomes. This field is critical for identifying and addressing health disparities, informing public health policies, and ultimately improving the health and well-being of populations.

Structure of the Textbook

This textbook is organized in ten chapters, each focusing on a key aspect of population health research. You will start by learning about the concept of health and the various determinants that influence health outcomes. Subsequent chapters will guide you through the research process, including formulating research questions and hypotheses, designing studies, collecting and analyzing data, and disseminating research findings.

The Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development (ABCD) Study

One of the unique features of this textbook is its integration of the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development (ABCD) Study into the learning material. The ABCD Study is a national landmark study that provides valuable insights into the health and development of adolescents. Throughout this textbook, we will use the ABCD Study as a practical example to illustrate the concepts and methodologies discussed in each chapter. By exploring this real-world study, you will gain a deeper understanding of how population health research is conducted and how it can inform our understanding of health and disease.