Combining a systems framework with epidemiology in the study of emerging infectious disease

Abstract

Boulding's Skeleton of Science (a systems framework) is used to demonstrate first that several levels of disciplines are necessary for holistic research, and secondly that this can be applied to addressing issues concerning emerging infectious disease (EID). A literature review gathered a list of possible contributing risk factors for EID. Those factors were matched to the levels of disciplines in Boulding's Skeleton of Science to show that different risk factors must be studied by a combination of disciplines to adequately address the occurrence of infectious disease. An analysis of one international health policy document is also included to determine the range of disciplines represented in that document. Using a multidisciplinary (systemic) approach demonstrated advantages that complement and overcome the limitations of modern epidemiology. Recommendations for the inclusion of a multidisciplinary epidemiological approach are made, followed by some reflections on the conclusions drawn from this research, and suggestions for future work. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.