This text focuses on areas of public health practice in which the systematic application of epidemiologic methods can have a large and positive impact. It describes how best to apply traditional epidemiologic methods for determining disease etiology to "real-life" problems in public healthand health services research. Brownson and Petitti's much-needed book bridges the gap between theoretical epidemiology and public health practice, and covers a number of topics not addressed by other epidemiology texts with a focus on methods. This second edition contains a new chapter on thedevelopment and use of systematic reviews and one on epidemiology and the law. Each chapter includes one or more case studies intended to illustrate major points from the chapter and to provide a basis for teaching exercises. All of the chapters are authored by leading experts in the fields ofepidemiology and public health, and all are fully revised and updated. The book is intended for practitioners in epidemiology as well as for students in epidemiology and related disciplines that rely on epidemiologic methods and reasoning. It is a practical and informative book for use in academic institutions, federal agencies which have significant educationalmissions, state and local public health agencies, and health care organizations. By providing a resource of immense accessibility to several key audiences, this edition of Applied Epidemiology: Theory to Practice further extends the fields ability to make a real difference on behalf of better healthfor all.