Epidemiologic methodology as used in China.

Seven epidemiological methods commonly used in China are discussed. A communicable disease reporting system is in place but this does not include rheumatic diseases. Death registers include cause of death only in selected pilot study points. Field studies using either mobile clinics or nation-wide treatment and prevention programs are useful for infectious diseases. Disease specific surveys of mortality and prevalence are available for hypertension and tuberculosis. Some case control and efficacy studies are also undertaken. Thirty longterm disease surveillance points have been established throughout China.