RESUMO
This publication provides concepts, epidemiological tools and practical examples illustrating ways to measure changes in health status, and then relate these changes to specific policies and interventions. Emphasis is placed on concepts and approaches that are in line with the shift towards preventive medicine and the corresponding appreciation for the importance of such factors as behaviour, lifestyle and environmental conditions. Within this conceptual framework, the book presents a large number and range of quantitative methods that can serve as reliable tools for identifying problems, setting targets and assessing progress. Contributions from more than 70 experts in the fields of epidemiology, statistics, behavioural research, and social and preventive medicine are included. This book will help health planners and professionals to appreciate the nature and size of the health problems and the programmes needed to overcome them. It is aimed primarily at people in health departments who are responsible for health management, policy development and, in particular, health promotion, which is an increasingly important part of the movement for health for all.
