Course

NR518 Population Health and Epidemiology in Nursing Practice

Collaboration Café: Causes of Morbidity and Mortality

Investigate epidemiological data to learn about the leading causes of morbidity and mortality within your region, and respond to the following:

Select one leading cause of morbidity or mortality, and explain how one model can be applied to better understand the epidemiology of the selected disease (e.g., web of causation model or epidemiological triangle model).
Describe examples of primary, secondary, and tertiary levels of prevention used to address the selected disease.

Peer Response: Compare your findings to classmates’. Consider similarities and differences in the disease prevalence, prevention strategies, or application of epidemiological models.

Tip: Reliable sources include government agencies, local/state health departments, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

How to Approach This Discussion

Select a Disease:
- Use regional morbidity and mortality statistics to identify the most prevalent disease.
- Examples: heart disease, diabetes, stroke, COPD, cancer.
Apply an Epidemiological Model:
- Web of Causation Model: Illustrates multiple interacting factors that contribute to disease.
- Epidemiological Triangle Model: Examines agent, host, and environment relationships.
- Explain how the model clarifies risk factors and disease patterns.
Identify Prevention Strategies:
- Primary Prevention: Prevent disease onset (e.g., vaccination, lifestyle education, healthy diet).
- Secondary Prevention: Early detection (e.g., screening, lab tests, blood pressure checks).
- Tertiary Prevention: Reduce complications or improve quality of life after diagnosis (e.g., rehabilitation, disease management programs).
Peer Engagement:
- Compare disease prevalence, model application, or prevention strategies with classmates.
- Reflect on differing approaches and insights.

Key Concepts to Focus On

Epidemiology and disease patterns
Leading causes of morbidity and mortality
Epidemiological models: web of causation and epidemiological triangle
Levels of prevention: primary, secondary, tertiary
Evidence-based interventions and public health strategies
Population health and regional health disparities

Sample Solution

Chronic metabolic disease type 2 diabetes is typified by insulin resistance and hyperglycemia, which can result in long-term consequences including renal failure, neuropathy, and cardiovascular disease (Tuomilehto et al., 2023). Diabetes is more common in low-income and minority groups in Orlando, Florida, where social determinants of health such food insecurity, lack of access to healthcare, and low health literacy increase the prevalence of the condition (Bowen et al., 2025).…..Click below to access the full sample solution (PDF)