It is being repeatedly stressed that Community Medicine is one of the most important branches of Medicine. Many undergraduates lament that this is a highly conceptual subject too difficult to assimilate and memorise. Most of the books currently available in this subject are too exhaustive and elaborate. A student often memorises the least important facts and leaves out the most important facts in the process. Elaborate concepts, poor application of the principles taught, frequently changing public health scenario, over and above poor teaching methods makes this subject most unpalatable to the Medical student.

As an Undergraduate Student I had yearned for a concise textbook presented in a lucid style in Community Medicine. Least did I know that Lord had kept in store for me a career in this field and would direct me into writing a textbook on this subject. The habit of jotting down important points in any subject I read, has helped me a lot in preparing this manuscript. I admit that a keen and critical reader may not find elaborate concepts in this textbook to rack his brains upon, but he is sure to find what is most required.

I have taken great care not to leave out important topics like General Epidemiology, Environment, Hospital Hygiene, Immunisation etc. which are often poorly dealt with in most of the currently available books. It is my sincere belief that all topics have been treated with equal importance.

The reader may find the presentation a little different as the key points are highlighted for holding readers immediate attention. This book is sure to serve as a quick reference during exams for the Medical students. It is my strong intuition that this book will be handy for allied medical disciplines like Dentistry, Nursing, Pharmacy and even Medical Officers from the Health services. I believe that I have been able to bring out the Essence of Community Medicine in this textbook.