The epidemiological transition model describes the shift in disease patterns within a population as mortality declines and life expectancy increases. It typically involves a move away from infectious and parasitic diseases as primary causes of death toward degenerative and man-made diseases, often associated with lifestyle and aging. This model provides a framework for understanding how health patterns evolve in conjunction with socioeconomic development.
Understanding a nation’s position within this framework offers critical insights for public health policy, resource allocation, and healthcare planning. It highlights the evolving health challenges a nation faces, allowing for targeted interventions to improve population health and well-being. Historically, populations have moved through these stages in conjunction with improvements in sanitation, nutrition, and medical care. However, variations exist due to specific cultural, economic, and environmental factors.
