What is the difference between epidemiology and public health?

Epidemiology and public health are closely related fields, but they differ in their scope and focus:

Epidemiology:
Definition: The study of how diseases spread, their patterns, causes, and effects in populations.
Focus: Epidemiologists investigate the incidence, distribution, and determinants of health-related states or events (including diseases). They analyze data, conduct studies, and identify risk factors and causes of illnesses.
Goal: To understand disease patterns, identify outbreaks, and provide data that helps inform disease prevention strategies.
Approach: More research-oriented, focusing on data collection, statistical analysis, and scientific studies.
Public Health:
Definition: The practice of protecting and improving the health of populations through organized efforts and informed choices.
Focus: Public health encompasses a broader range of activities aimed at promoting health, preventing disease, and prolonging life through education, policy-making, health services, and health interventions.
Goal: To improve community health outcomes through programs, regulations, and policies that address a variety of health determinants (e.g., environmental, behavioral, and social factors).
Approach: Applied and interdisciplinary, focusing on prevention strategies, health promotion, policy implementation, and community outreach.
Relationship:
Epidemiology provides the scientific foundation for public health initiatives. Data and insights gathered by epidemiologists are used by public health professionals to design and implement interventions, policies, and education programs aimed at improving population health.