Clinical Epidemiology: A Basic Science for Clinical Medicine

Abstract

The second edition ofClinical Epidemiology, like the first edition six years before, is infused with the authors' enthusiasm for the subject. The book has been enhanced by the revision of several chapters and the addition of another ("How to Read Reviews and Economic Analyses"). Two ineffective original chapters have been deleted. The result is an improved book for "users," as opposed to "doers," of clinical research. I feel still, as I did in reviewing the first edition,1that those who wish to conduct actual research studies will probably need to look elsewhere for detailed discussion of clinical epidemiologic methodology. An exception to this assessment, however, is probably the thorough discussion of the N-of-1 strategy (pp 224-244). The book's main strength remains its clear and practical explanations of a wide variety of epidemiologic concepts. Useful references are included at the end of each chapter for readers who may wish