Question

In your own opinion, why do you think many public health professionals regard John Snow as the father of epidemiology? Provide three reasons to support your position.

Answer 1

In early period, epidemiology is a valuable field of study to eradicate diseases. People around the world suffered a lot due to wide number of epidemic diseases. Victorian Doctor John Snow, also known as the Father of Epidemiology, discovered a deadly outbreak of Cholera in London. His journey began in late 1848.

            John Snow is considered as the father of epidemiology due to his constant efforts to determine the outbreak of Cholera. He spent several decades only to study the Cholera in an organized manner. He is credited for solving the Cholera outbreak in London in 1854.

            Snow proved that Cholera occurred due to contaminated water. The people who drank water from the broad street pumps were the victims. He studied the samples of water and discovered white flecks floating in water, which caused Diarrhea. Being a doctor, he treated the sick coalminers affected by Cholera. He compiled his findings and released an essay with 39 pages “On the Mode of Communication of Cholera”. He paid from his own pocket to complete the research.

            Epidemiologists follow 5 ‘W’s while conducting the research. John was able to complete the 5 ‘W’s.

- What : Cholera

- Who : Human beings

- Where : London

- Time : 1848

- Why/How : due to contaminated water.

This is why Doctor John Snow is considered as the “Father of Epidemiology”.