This comprehensive new edition illustrates the multidisciplinary nature of public health and the complex ethical and political issues central to it. It includes discussions of epidemiological investigation, biomedical research, environmental assessment, analyses of individual and group behavior, massive data collection efforts, and policy developments.

In light of the changing world, further bioterrorism issues have been woven through relevant chapters. New additions in epidemiology include anthrax and SARS.  Additions in women's health consider new developments in hormone replacement therapy. A new emphasis has been placed on planning to include natural disasters as well as terrorism. Introduction to Public Health, Second Edition covers the basic elements of public health as well as essential data and statistics.