The Common Risk Factor Approach (CRFA) to Oral Health Promotion
History of the Common Risk Factors for Chronic Diseases

Until the 1950s, epidemiologic research concentrated on the eradication of infectious diseases. Mid twentieth century, with the emergence and utilization of vaccines and antibiotics, infectious diseases came under control and were replaced by an upsurge in chronic and degenerative diseases. Researchers were discovering a substantial increase in the number of men diagnosed with cardiovascular disease (CVD).⁶ This upsurge shifted the focus of epidemiologic studies to the little known etiologic factors related to emerging chronic and degenerative diseases.