A dictionary of epidemiology /

Editor Porta, who has now edited the two most recent editions of this dictionary (5th ed., CH, Feb'09, 46-3007) notes that the current "methodological 'revolution'" has led to "profound changes" in the sixth edition. As he explains, changes are evident in how the epidemiology community perceives seemingly basic concepts, such as risk, bias, and "confounding," which--along with many other terms--now have refined definitions. Furthermore, methods-related terms have been expanded and new terms added from biostatistics, clinical epidemiology, and other burgeoning fields with ties to epidemiology. As was true of the previous edition, definitions continue to be well-referenced, with--in this case--a list of more than 800 sources in the combined bibliography and reference sections. Cross-references are frequent, and charts, tables, graphs, and equations are used when necessary to highlight a concept. The International Epidemiological Association continues to sponsor the work and to use its influence and publishing arms to draw in an impressive list of contributors. All this is to emphasize the need for and excellence of this new edition. It is a well-constructed dictionary and one worthy of inclusion in libraries that serve a scientific/research community. Summing Up: Highly recommended. Lower-division undergraduates through professionals/practitioners. --Mark P. MacEachern, University of Michigan