Epigenetic Prospects in Epidemiology and Public Health

Abstract

Epigenetic epidemiology, an interdisciplinary field combining epigenetic and epidemiological knowledge, tools, and techniques, is emerging in medical research and public health. In this chapter, we review and discuss the promising role of epigenetics in understanding disease etiology, assessing relevant exposures, and using them for disease prediction and therapy. We summarize important aspects to be considered in the implementation of epigenetic epidemiological research including research question, study design, sample size, biological sample, and measurement tool. We also summarize the challenges in epigenetic epidemiology research including data analysis, interpretation of results, causal..