Perinatal Epidemiology

Graduate / Professional

In this course we explore the epidemiologic field of fertility, pregnancy, and pregnancy-related outcomes for the mother and the offspring. Through lectures and discussions, we focus on particular substantive topics and methodological challenges and opportunities relevant to the perinatal setting. Examples of topics are family planning, maternal pregnancy complications, birth outcomes, and long-term consequences of being born preterm. Important risk factors are covered, with a focus on modifiable risk factors (e.g., smoking and nutrition), key demographics (e.g., age and race/ethnicity), and climate change. For methods, we examine how the use of e.g. negative controls, sibling comparisons and instrumental variables can reduce the numerous biases in this field. Current and landmark studies are discussed and critically reviewed. While students are introduced to basic pregnancy biology along with some public health policy, this course is primarily oriented towards epidemiological research: Students develop the ability to critically appraise the literature in perinatal epidemiology, identify research gaps, and design studies to address these gaps. Prerequisite: EPH 508, Foundations of Epidemiology and Public Health (or equivalent). T 8am-9:50am