A primary purpose of applying epidemiologic findings is to do what with health problems?

• A. Cure all diseases
• B. Control health problems
• C. Expand medical billing
• D. Develop only theoretical models

Answer: (B)

The main idea being tested is how epidemiologic findings are used to take action that reduces illness and death at the population level. Epidemiology isn’t just about describing patterns; it’s about using those patterns to prevent and control health problems. By understanding who is affected, where, when, and why, public health professionals can implement targeted interventions, prioritize resources, and evaluate what works.

That’s why the best answer is to use findings to control health problems. For example, recognizing a high burden of a communicable disease in a community can lead to vaccination campaigns, contact tracing, isolation measures, and environmental controls to stop transmission. Identifying risk factors for chronic diseases informs programs that help people modify behaviors or environments to reduce incidence.

The other options don’t fit the primary aim. While cures are valuable, epidemiology focuses on population-level prevention and control rather than hoping to cure every disease. Expanding medical billing is not a public health objective of epidemiology. Developing only theoretical models misses the essential applied purpose of translating findings into real-world actions that reduce disease and improve health.