CDE 502a / EHS 502a, Physiology for Public Health  Catherine Yeckel

The objective of this course is to build a comprehensive working knowledge base for each of the primary physiologic systems that respond to acute and chronic environmental stressors, as well as chronic disease states. The course follows the general framework: (1) examine the structural and functional characteristics of given physiological system; (2) explore how both structure and function (within and between physiological systems) work to promote health; (3) explore how necessary features of each system (or integrated systems) are points of vulnerability that can lead to dysfunction and disease. In addition, this course offers the opportunity to examine each physiological system with respect to influences key to public health interest, e.g., age, race/ethnicity, environmental exposures, chronic disease, microbial disease, and lifestyle, including the protection afforded by healthy lifestyle factors. Not open to auditors.
Th 1pm-2:50pm

[ CDE 515, Accelerated Epidemiology ]

This intensive seven-week summer course provides a comprehensive overview of epidemiologic concepts and methods. Topics include measurements of disease frequency and association, study design (including randomized and non-randomized controlled trials, cohort studies, case-control studies, cross-sectional studies, and ecologic studies), screening principles, reliability and validity, bias, confounding, and effect modification. After completing this course, students are able to calculate and interpret epidemiologic parameters, identify the strengths and weaknesses of various study designs, and apply the principles and methods of epidemiology to the design and analysis of new studies. Not open to students in the traditional two-year M.P.H. program.  1 Course cr

CDE 516b, Principles of Epidemiology II  Leah Ferrucci

This is an intermediate-level course on epidemiologic principles and methods. The course covers bias, introduction to multivariable analysis for confounder control and assessment of effect modification, indirect standardization, matching, residual confounding, survival analysis, randomized controlled trials including cluster-randomized trials, multiplicity and subgroup analysis, sample size and power, meta-analysis, screening, genetic association studies, use of biomarkers in epidemiology, and epidemic investigation. Through lectures, class discussion, readings from the peer-reviewed literature in both chronic and infectious disease epidemiology, and homework assignments, students learn to (1) evaluate the scientific merit and feasibility of epidemiologic study designs; (2) review, critique, and evaluate epidemiologic reports and research articles; (3) perform epidemiologic calculations; and (4) draw appropriate inferences from epidemiologic data, all at the intermediate level. Prerequisites: EPH 505 and EPH 508. Not open to auditors.
F 8:30am-9:50am, MW 10am-11:20am

CDE 520b / EHS 520b, Case-Based Learning for Genetic and Environmental Diseases  Josephine Hoh

This course is a gateway to several updated as well as landmark public health stories with insights, analysis, and exclusives, including topics such as epigenetics, development of disease prevention, and personalized medicines. Ethical, political, and economic issues involved in the proper handling of genetic information are also discussed. Lectures are delivered using multimedia methods, including illustrations, cartoons, videos, and smart reads. Students take away the latest developments in tackling the causes of both early- and late-onset diseases; a roundup of key challenges; and skills in the appropriate design of a study, analysis, and interpretation that will be crucial for tackling the disease of their own interest in the future. Active participation in quizzes, writing, sharing personal research and opinions, and presentations are the criteria for the final grade. No prerequisites.
Th 1pm-2:50pm

CDE 525a and CDE 526b, Seminar in Chronic Disease Epidemiology  Tormod Rogne

This seminar is conducted once a month and focuses on speakers and topics of particular relevance to CDE students. Students are introduced to research activities of the department’s faculty members, with regular presentations by invited researchers and community leaders. The seminar is required of first-year CDE students. Although no credit or grade is awarded, satisfactory performance will be noted on the student’s transcript.  0 Course cr per term
T 12pm-12:50pm

CDE 532b, Epidemiology of Cancer  Brenda Cartmel

This course applies epidemiologic methods to the study of cancer etiology and prevention. Introductory sessions cover cancer biology, carcinogenesis, cancer incidence, and mortality rates in the United States, and international variation in cancer rates. The course then focuses on risk factors for cancer (including tobacco, alcohol, hormonal factors, diet, radiation, and obesity/physical activity) and on major cancer sites (including colon, breast, and prostate). Emphasis is placed on critical reading of the literature. Prerequisite: EPH 508.
T 1pm-2:50pm

CDE 534b, Applied Analytic Methods in Epidemiology  Mayur Desai

This computer lab-based course provides students with a comprehensive overview of data management and data analysis techniques. The SAS statistical software program is used. Students learn how to create and manipulate data sets and variables using SAS; identify appropriate statistical tests and modeling approaches to evaluate epidemiologic associations; and perform a broad array of univariate, bivariate, and multivariable analyses using SAS and interpret the results. Prerequisites: EPH 505 and EPH 508; or, for Advanced Professional M.P.H. students, successful completion of EPH 515 or permission of the instructor. Not open to auditors.
M 3pm-4:50pm

CDE 535b, Epidemiology of Heart Disease and Stroke  Judith Lichtman

Heart disease and stroke are among the leading causes of death and disability among industrialized nations. This course introduces students to the major categories of cerebrovascular and cardiovascular disease. Students are challenged to think about how individual diseases contribute to the epidemic of vascular disease in the United States. In this course, students learn basic principles about the rates of disease, risk factors, clinical trial results, and outcomes of heart disease and stroke. Through the analysis of actual studies, students apply basic epidemiology to critically evaluate current literature and topics in this field. Sessions include a clinical overview of a specific disease or risk factor, as well as highly interactive discussion of a specific epidemiologic topic or principle. Students are encouraged to develop their own solutions to current gaps in the epidemiologic literature.
Th 8am-9:50am

CDE 538b, Soda Politics: How the Soft Drink Industry Profoundly Influences Social Policy around the World  Neal Baer

The story of soda is a remarkable tale of how a product that has no nutritional value and costs pennies to make came to be a mammoth profit leader through ingenious advertising, lobbying, and marketing. We explore soda’s profound impact on health, the economy, the environment, philanthropy, and advertising and read the most recent studies on its contribution to the obesity epidemic. We also delve into who the players are in the politics of soda—the public health officials, lobbyists, health activists, advertising agencies, lawmakers, taxpayers, and academic researchers—and discuss what role, if any, the government should play in controlling access to soda in schools, hospitals, and other governmental institutions, and whether taxing soda is at odds with freedom of choice in the marketplace. Prerequisite: some facility with reading scientific journal articles and analyzing statistics is necessary.  ½ Course cr
M 1pm-2:50pm

[ CDE 540E, Principles of Epidemiology II ]

This is an intermediate-level course on epidemiologic principles and methods. Students learn to (1) evaluate the scientific merit and feasibility of epidemiologic study designs, (2) review, critique, and evaluate epidemiologic reports and research articles, (3) perform epidemiologic calculations, and (4) draw appropriate inferences from epidemiologic data, all at the intermediate level. Open only to students enrolled in the Executive Online M.P.H. Program. Not open to auditors.  1 Course cr

CDE 541Ea, Applied Analytic Methods in Epidemiology  Josefa Martinez

Students are given a comprehensive overview of data management and data analysis techniques. The SAS statistical software program is used. Students learn how to create and manipulate data sets and variables using SAS; identify appropriate statistical tests and modeling approaches to evaluate epidemiologic associations; and perform a broad array of univariate, bivariate, and multivariable analyses using SAS and interpret the results. Open only to students enrolled in the Executive Online M.P.H. Program. Not open to auditors.
HTBA

[ CDE 542E, Advanced Applied Analytic Methods in Epidemiology and Public Health ]

This course provides students with the theoretical and analytical tools necessary to address complex research questions in epidemiology and public health, with a focus on advanced modeling techniques that are gaining in popularity in these fields. Students learn how to conduct advanced analyses using the SAS programming software. Open only to students enrolled in the Executive Online M.P.H. Program. Prerequisites: CDE 540E and CDE 541E; other equivalent classes require permission of the instructor. Not open to auditors.  1 Course cr

CDE 543Eb, Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses: Methodology of Synthesizing Evidence  Shi-Yi Wang

Evidence-based medicine and health care uses best current evidence in addressing clinical or public health questions. This course introduces principles of evidence-based practice in formulating clinical or public health questions, systematically searching for evidence, and applying it to the question. Types of questions considered include: examining the comparative effectiveness and safety of clinical and public health interventions, disease etiology (risk factor analysis), diagnostic testing, and prognosis. Particular consideration is given to the methodology of synthesizing evidence in a systematic review. Also addressed is the role of evidence in informing economic analysis of health care programs, and clinical and public health practice guidelines. Using a problem-based approach, students contribute actively to the classes and small-group sessions. Students complete a systematic review in their own field of interest using Cochrane Collaboration methodology and software. Open only to students enrolled in the Executive Online M.P.H. Program. Prerequisites: EPH 534E (Foundations of Epidemiology and Public Health).  Not open to auditors.
HTBA

CDE 545b, Health Disparities by Race and Social Class: Application to Chronic Disease Epidemiology  Beth Jones

One of four overarching goals of Healthy People 2020 is to “achieve health equity, eliminate disparities, and improve the health of all groups.” This course explores disparities in the chronic diseases that contribute disproportionately to ill health, resource utilization, reduced quality of life, and mortality. Taking a life course perspective as we explore disparities across the spectrum of chronic diseases, we focus on differences in health between diverse racial/ethnic and/or socioeconomic groups, primarily in the United States. The primary focus of this course is on understanding the determinants and consequences of health disparities, learning to critically evaluate health disparities research, and thinking creatively about elimination strategies.
W 1pm-2:50pm

CDE 547b, Global Infectious and Chronic Disease Patterns  Catherine Yeckel

The global burden of disease has been transitioning from communicable to noncommunicable diseases, but both remain major health issues. Accordingly, it is critical to develop perspectives and approaches to address this evolving double burden of disease. While traditionally infectious and chronic diseases have been siloed in public and global health, the emerging health picture is one of a complex relationship not easily teased apart. There is both the potential for co-existence and influence imposed between infectious and chronic diseases. The goal of this course is to examine and critique both the classic separateness and the modern-day complex interconnectedness and co-existence between infectious disease and chronic disease entities, including the role of environmental factors on these global conditions.
Th 10am-11:50am

[ CDE 550, Litigational Epidemiology ]

A lecture and seminar course on scientific and legal issues for drugs and other manufactured products vis-à-vis their utility and adverse effects in populations. Topics include pharmacoepidemiology data sources; general and specific causal evidential reasoning; study power and sample size; meta-analysis and reverse meta-analysis; types of pharmacoepidemiologic studies; preapproval and postapproval epidemiology; government and scientific agency reviews; product liability legal theory, Daubert, legal case consulting and depositions; epidemiologists vs. attorneys. The course consists of once-weekly two-hour sessions, divided approximately equally into didactic presentations by the instructor and presentations and discussions of assigned readings and other course materials by students. The general learning objectives are for students to understand aspects of epidemiology that apply to the data and analysis of studies of drugs and other products, how those particulars are regarded in the litigation context, and how epidemiologists maintain and defend their commitments to scientific objectivity while representing litigational interests. Prerequisites: High Pass or better in EPH 505, EPH 508, CDE 516, and BIS 505 or their equivalents, or consent of the instructor.  1 Course cr

CDE 551a, Global Noncommunicable Disease  Nicola Hawley

This course focuses on the contemporary burden of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), with a particular focus on the health impact of NCDs in low- and middle-income countries. The first part of the course briefly covers the etiology and global distribution of four key NCDs: cardiovascular disease, cancer, chronic respiratory disease, and diabetes. We then discuss the shared behavioral, metabolic, and physiologic risk factors for these diseases and explore how NCDs are associated with economic development, globalization, and the demographic and health transitions. The second half of the course focuses concretely on approaches to NCD intervention, from individual-level approaches to coordinated global action. The last five lectures are by guest speakers offering insight into the successes and challenges of their own intervention attempts.
T 1pm-2:50pm

CDE 562a, Nutrition and Chronic Disease  Leah Ferrucci

This course provides students with a scientific basis for understanding the role of nutrition and specific nutrients in the etiology, prevention, and management of chronic diseases. Nutrition and cancer are particularly emphasized. Other topics addressed include cardiovascular diseases, osteoporosis, obesity, diabetes mellitus, and aging. Implications for federal nutrition policy, such as dietary guidelines, dietary supplement regulations, and food labeling, are discussed. Not open to auditors.
W 10am-11:50am

CDE 563b / EHS 563b, Biomarkers of Exposure, Effect, and Susceptibility in the Epidemiology of Noncommunicable Disease  Caroline Johnson

This course explores how new biomarker approaches can be applied to understanding the health consequences of environmental exposures and other risk factors. We learn how advances in the measurement of environmental exposures, genes, proteins, metabolites, and the microbiome have strengthened epidemiological associations and narrowed the gap from correlation to causality. Variability in biomarker performance and susceptibility to disease due to ageing, diet, location, and other factors is discussed, along with methods that are used to evaluate biomarker evidence in epidemiology. Lectures describe chronic noncommunicable diseases of immediate concern to public health such as neurodegenerative diseases (Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease), cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and asthma. We examine seminal publications and the application of techniques that have transformed the understanding of each disease, resulting in improvements to early detection and treatment approaches for these diseases. We also delve into examples of epidemiologic studies that have been carried out on large prospective cohorts, such as the Framingham Heart Study and Nurses’ Health Study, and compare and critique methods used to identify biomarkers of disease between the cohorts. To evaluate and foster greater understanding of these areas, students critique journal articles for homework assignments.
T 10am-11:50am

CDE 566a / EHS 566a, Causal Inference Methods in Public Health Research  Zeyan Liew

This course introduces the theory and applications of causal inference methods for public health research. The rapid development of both the theoretical frameworks and applications of causal inference methods in recent years provides opportunities to improve the rigor of epidemiological research. The course covers topics such as (1) the principles of causal logic including counterfactuals and probability logic, (2) epidemiological study designs and sources of biases including misinterpretations of statistics, (3) applications of causal diagrams in epidemiology, (4) applications of causal modeling techniques in epidemiological research using real-world and simulated data. Students leave the course with a basic knowledge of causal inference methods to apply in their own research projects and the ability to further explore the causal inference literature. This is an introductory-level course for causal inference methods with a focus on epidemiological research using observational data. Students interested in the theoretical and mathematical basis of causal inference methods should consider taking BIS 537. Prerequisites: EPH 508 and either BIS 505 or CDE 534. Other equivalent classes would require the permission of the instructor. Programming experience is also required.
M 10am-11:50am, W 3pm-3:50pm

CDE 567a, Injury and Violence as Public Health Issues  Linda Degutis

This course focuses on the contemporary burden of injuries and violence, with an emphasis on models and methods for studying and preventing injuries and violence. The first part of the course focuses on the history of injury and violence epidemiology and prevention, as well as the risk factors for, and distribution of, morbidity and mortality related to injuries and violence in the United States and globally. The remainder of the course focuses on specific types of injury and violence events, research and interventions to prevent and mitigate injury and violence, linkages between research and practice in the field of injury and violence prevention, as well as policy and legal issues in injury and violence prevention. This course meets primarily online via Zoom video conferencing software, with in-person meetings during weeks 1 and 13.
W 3pm-4:50pm

CDE 570b, Humanities, Arts, and Public Health  Judith Lichtman

This course challenges students to explore the possibilities, problems, and potential uses of arts and humanities in public health practice. Utilizing the expertise present across Yale University and featuring work of artists from across the country, this primarily U.S.-focused course explores different methodologies for incorporating and assessing the impact of arts in the public health field. Classes meet twice weekly, once for a lecture/discussion and once for an interactive, hands-on workshop or performance. Each of the weekly modules focuses on a central theme and incorporates aspects of methods and assessment alongside creative work. By the end of the course, students are familiar with a variety of projects integrating arts, humanities, and health in the United States; understand the importance of self-reflection and responsible artistic practice; have a basic understanding of the importance of impact assessment; and have designed and evaluated a hands-on creative project. EPH 507 and EPH 508 are recommended but not required.
M 3pm-4:50pm

CDE 572a, Obesity Prevention and Lifestyle Interventions  Melinda Irwin

This course reviews the methods and evaluation of obesity prevention and lifestyle interventions conducted in multiple settings (e.g., individual, family, and community settings, as well as policy-level interventions). Topics include physical activity, nutrition, and weight-loss interventions in various populations (children, adults, those who are healthy, and those with chronic diseases). The course combines didactic presentations, discussion, and a comprehensive review of a particular lifestyle intervention by students. This course is intended to increase the student’s skills in evaluating and conducting obesity prevention and lifestyle interventions.
T 10am-11:50am

CDE 582a, Health Outcomes Research: Matching the Right Research Question to the Right Data  Michaela Dinan

The overarching goal is to provide a bridge between previously learned statistical methodologies and public health subject matter (see prerequisites) to knowledge of secondary data resources and the ability to critically formulate and evaluate a research question. The course has been designed with the goal of achieving the following learning objectives: (1) understand types of health outcomes study designs and associated strengths and limitations; (2) know how to critically interpret studies; (3) critically formulate a research question; (4) be familiar with commonly used types of data and associated strengths and limitations; (5) be able to write, communicate, and incorporate feedback on a research question and analysis plan; (6) be able to evaluate and provide feedback on research questions and analysis plans. Prerequisites: EPH 505, EPH 507, EPH 508, and EPH 510. Not open to auditors.
W 8am-9:50am

CDE 588a, Perinatal Epidemiology  Tormod Rogne

In this course we explore the epidemiologic field of fertility, pregnancy, and pregnancy-related outcomes for the mother and the offspring. Through lectures and discussions, we focus on particular substantive topics and methodological challenges and opportunities relevant to the perinatal setting. Examples of topics are family planning, maternal pregnancy complications, birth outcomes, and long-term consequences of being born preterm. Important risk factors are covered, with a focus on modifiable risk factors (e.g., smoking and nutrition), key demographics (e.g., age and race/ethnicity), and climate change. For methods, we examine how the use of e.g. negative controls, sibling comparisons and instrumental variables can reduce the numerous biases in this field. Current and landmark studies are discussed and critically reviewed. While students are introduced to basic pregnancy biology along with some public health policy, this course is primarily oriented towards epidemiological research: Students develop the ability to critically appraise the literature in perinatal epidemiology, identify research gaps, and design studies to address these gaps. Prerequisite: EPH 508 - Foundations of Epidemiology and Public Health (or equivalent)
W 1pm-2:50pm

CDE 597a, Genetic Concepts in Public Health  Andrew Dewan

The widespread availability of genetic data has resulted in the translation of genetics into a variety of public health settings. At the core of public health genetics is the rapidly growing science of genetic epidemiology, the study of the role of human genetic variation in determining disease risk in families and populations. This course focuses on the design, analysis, and interpretation of genetic epidemiologic studies. Topics covered include Mendelian laws of inheritance; recombination and linkage disequilibrium; types of genetic variation; molecular technologies for detection of genetic variation; study designs and statistical analysis methods used in genetic epidemiologic studies; and the translation of genetic epidemiologic findings into genetic testing and screening programs. The course provides an understanding of the role of the public health sciences of epidemiology and statistics in the study of human genetics, and of the role of genetics in public health. Prerequisite: previous course work in biology or genetics (BIOL 101–104 series for Yale College students) or permission of the instructors.
W 10am-11:20am, T 5pm-6:50pm

CDE 600a or b, Independent Study or Directed Readings  Staff

Independent study or directed readings on a specific research topic agreed upon by faculty and student. By arrangement with faculty. For M.S. and Ph.D. students only.
HTBA

CDE 610b, Applied Area Readings for Qualifying Exams  Staff

Required of CDE Ph.D. students, in preparation for qualifying exams. Readings arranged with specific faculty in related research area. By arrangement with faculty.
HTBA

CDE 617a, Developing a Research Proposal  Xiaomei Ma

Each student develops a research grant proposal independently. This includes the development of a research question, specific aims, study hypotheses, reviewing and summarizing relevant scientific literature, choosing a study design, and developing a data collection and analysis strategy. Students submit drafts of sections of the grant proposal throughout the course and resubmit the revised proposal to the instructor for a final grade. Prerequisite: EPH 505, BIS 505 (can be taken concurrently), CDE 516 (can be taken concurrently), doctoral status, or permission of the instructor. Not open to auditors.
F 1pm-2:50pm

[ CDE 619, Advanced Epidemiologic Research Methods ]

This advanced course focuses on quantitative issues and techniques relevant to the design and analysis of observational epidemiologic studies. Starting with formal definitions of the commonly used epidemiologic parameters, and assuming a working knowledge of ANOVA and linear regression, the course covers analyses based on various related types of regression, e.g., logistic, Poisson, Cox, etc. The GLIM and PECAN computer programs are described and used throughout. Students analyze and discuss data sets of generally increasing complexity. Prerequisite: EPH 505, BIS 505, doctoral status, or permission of the instructor.  1 Course cr

CDE 634b, Advanced Applied Analytic Methods in Epidemiology and Public Health  Yasmmyn Salinas

This course provides students with the theoretical and analytical tools necessary to address complex research questions in epidemiology and public health. The course focuses on advanced modeling techniques that are gaining in popularity in these fields. The analytic techniques covered include propensity score analysis, quantile regression, principal component analysis, factor analysis, cluster analysis, structural equation modeling, path analysis, case-cohort analysis, and nested-case control analysis. Students learn how to conduct these analyses using the SAS programming software. Students also learn how to interpret and present the results of these methods. Recommended for students with previous course work in epidemiology and multivariable regression modeling. Prerequisites: CDE 516 and CDE 534; other equivalent classes require permission of the instructor.
M 1pm-2:50pm

CDE 650a, Introduction to Evidence-Based Medicine and Health Care  Shi-Yi Wang

Evidence-based medicine and health care use best current evidence in addressing clinical or public health questions. This course introduces principles of evidence-based practice in formulating clinical or public health questions, systematically searching for evidence, and applying it to the question. Types of questions include examining the comparative effectiveness of clinical and public health interventions, etiology, diagnostic testing, and prognosis. Particular consideration is given to the meta-analytic methodology of synthesizing evidence in a systematic review. Also addressed is the role of evidence in informing economic analysis of health care programs and clinical practice guidelines. Using a problem-based approach, students contribute actively to the classes and small-group sessions. Students complete a systematic review in their own field of interest using Cochrane Collaboration methodology. Prerequisite: CDE 516 or permission of the instructor.
Th 10am-11:50am

CDE 670a or b, Advanced Field Methods in Public Health  Staff

The course offers direct experience in field methods in chronic disease epidemiology for doctoral students and advanced M.P.H. students. Students are expected to actively participate as part of a research team (8–10 hours per week) doing field research in some aspect of chronic disease epidemiology. It is expected that their progress will be directly supervised by the principal investigator of the research project. This course can be taken for one or two terms and may be taken for credit. Prerequisite: arrangement with a faculty member must be made in advance of registration.
HTBA