The potential and value of epidemiology in curbing non-communicable diseases

Abstract

Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) have reached pandemic levels globally and pose a major threat to social and economic development worldwide. The discipline of epidemiology has done much to bring this issue to the forefront of global health. Epidemiological approaches have broadened our understanding of the impact of NCDs in widening socioeconomic disparities. Over a number of decades, this discipline has also contributed to the development of many preventive measures and treatments of known efficacy and safety. However, epidemiology also has a critical role to play in better translating these discoveries into practice, through the new science of implementation. As we strive to achieve the “25 by 25” goal of a 25% reduction in premature mortality from common NCDs by 2025, the discipline of epidemiology will need to continuously evolve to remain an essential tool for public health action.