Statistical Epidemiology in Veterinary Science

Griffin, 1979. 1st Edition . Hardcover. Very Good/Very Good. 5.5" X 8.75. H/B 158 pages, condition is Very Good, minor edge wear to the DJ. Animal diseases must be studied under field conditions if their natural history, economic importance, and connection with factors of management and environment are to be determined. This book is the first to set out the statistical background that is required specifically for such studies. Stressing the need for a working relationship between veterinary scientist and statistician, it explores the main problems encountered during the planning, execution and analysis of field investigations. Relevant statistical theory and techniques are clearly outlined without recourse to the difficult concepts of probability distributions. Data processing and analysis by computer are assumed; consequential effects on the design of forms and on data preparation are discussed in some detail, and techniques of analysis are related to the principles inherent in some widely available computer packages. Table analysis and the use of mathematical models (including curve fitting and regression) are considered, and methods for dealing with complications due to the rapid turnover of farm animal populations are discussed and exemplified. The relevance and shortcomings of conventional tests of significance in the evaluation of epidemiological and survey data are also discussed. Sample surveys receive special attention, and the text concludes with notes on the presentation of results in the form of a report or as a paper for publication. The book will be of great value to veterinary epidemiologists in developed or developing countries, for the guidance it gives on the investigation of animal diseases in the field, whether as an aid to planning control measures, for deciding research priorities, or for the laboratory study of a disease entity. Although not designed primarily for teaching, much of the contents could readily be adapted for inclusion in courses at undergraduate and graduate level for students of veterinary epidemiology or in the fields of public health and preventive medicine.