Basic Biostatistics: Statistics for Public Health Practice, 2nd Edition (EPUB)

Comprehensive Guide to Basic Biostatistics for Public Health

Introduction

“Basic Biostatistics” is a comprehensive introductory textbook that provides a strong foundation in biostatistical principles and their application in public health and biomedical fields. The text emphasizes both exploratory and confirmatory statistical methods to equip readers with the necessary skills for data analysis and interpretation.

Content Organization

The book is meticulously organized into three distinct parts:

Part I: Fundamental Concepts and Techniques

This section introduces the foundational principles of biostatistics, including the concept of data, types of variables, and basic descriptive statistics. It lays the groundwork for more advanced statistical methods.

Part II: Analytic Techniques for Quantitative Response Variables

Part II delves into the analysis of continuous or quantitative data. It covers topics such as sampling, exploratory data analysis, estimation, hypothesis testing, and the assessment of power and precision.

Part III: Techniques for Categorical Responses

This section focuses on the analysis of categorical or non-continuous data. It explores methods for contingency table analysis, logistic regression, and other techniques useful for studying relationships between categorical variables.

Features

“Basic Biostatistics” boasts a range of features that enhance its pedagogical value:

• Engaging Examples and Exercises: Throughout the book, numerous illustrative examples and exercises are incorporated to demonstrate the practical application of biostatistical concepts.
• Answers to Exercises: Answers to odd-numbered exercises are provided in the appendix, aiding students in self-assessment and reinforcement of learning.
• Flexible Coverage: Chapters are designed to be relatively brief and self-contained, allowing instructors to customize the order and pace of coverage based on their curriculum.
• Software Integration: Equal emphasis is given to manual calculations and the use of statistical software such as StaTable, SPSS, and WinPepi, empowering students to choose the most convenient approach for their needs.
• Companion Website: The comprehensive companion website offers additional resources for students and instructors, including interactive exercises, discussion forums, and downloadable materials.

Suitable Audience

“Basic Biostatistics” is an ideal introductory text for undergraduate and graduate students in various fields of public health who have a modest mathematical background. It equips them with the necessary skills to analyze and interpret data encountered in public health and biomedical research.