Causes of Human Disease

Most FutureLearn courses run multiple times. Every run of a course has a set start date but you can join it and work through it after it starts. Find out more The course is suitable for anyone with a general interest in the science behind causes of human disease. No previous knowledge or experience is required. If you are working in nursing, healthcare or social care, or just wish to learn more, this course is designed to support you as a professional. By completing all aspects of the course you will have achieved 14 hours of CPD time. You can use the hashtag #FLcausesofdisease to talk about this course on social media.

Topics Covered

The main processes in understanding the structure of a population and its impact on a country’s health.
Key indicators used to monitor the health status of populations and the distribution of diseases.
Analytical epidemiology and how evidence is used to understand causes of human disease at the population level.
Risk factors for specific health conditions.
Social determinants of health that contribute to the causes of disease.
Socio-economic factors and health inequalities.
The life course approach to the study of risk factors and the causes of disease.
Key features and differences of global patterns of disease.

Reviews summary

Accessible introduction to human disease causes

According to learners, this course offers a clear and accessible introduction to the causes of human disease, making it highly suitable for beginners or those with limited scientific background. Many found the explanations of complex topics easy to understand and appreciated the well-structured modules. However, some learners with prior healthcare or scientific experience found the course content to be too general or lacking sufficient depth on specific conditions. While providing a solid overview, it may serve better as an entry point rather than a comprehensive resource for professionals seeking advanced knowledge. Overall, it appears to be a largely positive experience for its intended broad audience.