Global Health Initiatives and the Role of Epidemiology

Whether you're interested in a career in public health or are looking to pivot from a healthcare career to a greater focus on global health initiatives, pursuing an advanced degree in epidemiology can be an excellent choice.

According to United States Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) data, the job outlook for epidemiologists is expected to grow by 27 percent between 2022 and 2032 alone, which is much faster than the national average for all occupations. Meanwhile, a solid foundation of skills and knowledge in epidemiology could set you up to make a real difference in carrying out global health initiatives and preventing the spread of disease.

Understanding Global Health Initiatives (GHIs)

Before diving deeper into the connection between epidemiology and global health, it's important to understand exactly what a global health initiative (GHI) is and what these entail from a public health perspective.

Defining GHIs: Why Are They Important?

The World Health Organization (WHO) states that international health programs were created to address growing global health challenges, diminish inequalities within and among countries, and help build a world where individuals enjoy better health, safety, and longevity.

In simpler terms, GHIs serve as partnerships to achieve global health goals with an emphasis on collaboration between governments, non-government organizations (NGOs), and philanthropists alike.

Why do GHIs matter in the scope of public health? In many ways, GHIs can improve global health by helping to control the spread of disease while strengthening health systems and even preparing populations for pandemics and other health crises.

The Scope of GHIs: Addressing a Wide Range of Health Challenges

In terms of their scope, global health initiatives can reach a wide range of populations. However, they tend to be more focused on providing funds, education, and other resources to low- and middle-income countries that may not otherwise be able to access them.

There are many potential health challenges that GHIs can address, ranging from providing basic maternal and child health/nutrition services to communities to eradicating entire diseases.

Key Players in the Global Health Landscape

In designing and implementing GHIs, there are a number of key players involved. These include international organizations, global partnerships, philanthropic foundations, and even governments. The exact scope of involvement can vary from one initiative to the next, and specific roles can even fluctuate based on public health goals and other factors.

International Organizations

International organizations are key players in most GHIs, with examples including:

• World Health Organization (WHO) - Offering leadership and coordination.
• UNICEF - Focusing on children's health and well-being.

Global Partnerships

Likewise, it is not uncommon for partnerships to form between organizations or government/non-government actors across the globe. Some examples of global partnerships often involved in GHIs include:

• Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance - Expanding immunization access.
• The Global Fund - Fighting AIDS, Tuberculosis, and Malaria.

Philanthropic Foundations

In some cases, private firms and philanthropists may also get involved in global health initiatives. These groups tend to have access to large amounts of funding that can make a huge difference in the success of a GHI. Examples of well-known philanthropic foundations include:

• Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation - Major funder of global health research and programs.
• The Wellcome Trust - Supports health research and innovation.

Epidemiology and Global Disease Surveillance

Now that you have a better understanding of what global health initiatives entail and why they matter, you might be wondering what this has to do with epidemiology. In many ways, epidemiology is responsible for preventing the spread of disease in an effort to protect and improve public health. It is not uncommon for epidemiologists to be brought in for guidance and assistance in carrying out global health initiatives.

The Power of Data in Global Health

Epidemiologists often work with large amounts of data in an effort to predict disease patterns, trends, and potential locations for epidemics. In this sense, epidemiological data can help inform disease patterns and be used to create early warning systems for epidemics and outbreaks. Meanwhile, epidemiologists can draw on data to monitor the progress of interventions, programs, and other initiatives as they are carried out.

Challenges and Innovations in Global Disease Surveillance

As you can imagine, carrying out accurate disease surveillance over large populations across the globe can be challenging. This can be especially true in resource-limited settings where many epidemiologists work. Thankfully, there are new technologies and innovations making it easier than ever to effectively track disease surveillance networks.

For example, consider the use of real-time surveillance and rapid response networks, as well as innovative technology that can carry out disease tracking and analysis more efficiently than ever.

How Epidemiology Guides Global Health Initiatives

The field of epidemiology is one of the most critical resources for guiding global health initiatives toward success. Specifically, epidemiology can be used to identify health threats, measure the impact of interventions, and make improvements where necessary.

Identifying and Prioritizing Health Threats

Using their training and resources, epidemiologists can analyze disease burden and risk factors to identify and prioritize global health threats. Specifically, they can pinpoint vulnerable populations and high-risk areas where additional support or resources may be needed. They can also use the data they collect to develop evidence-based strategies for intervention in the name of public health.

Measuring Impact and Improving Interventions

Experienced and knowledgeable epidemiologists can also use the data they collect to evaluate the effectiveness and progress of GHI programs while carefully monitoring progress toward global health targets. When needed, this data can also be used to identify areas that may need improvement or other adaptations.

The Synergy of GHIs and Epidemiology in Action

Over the years, there have been many instances where populations have been able to see the results of GHIs and epidemiology in action.

Case Studies: GHIs and Epidemiology's Success Stories

For instance, consider the eradication of smallpox in 1980 that occurred following a large global health initiative to develop an effective vaccine. This case study serves as a true testament to the power of global collaboration and epidemiological principles.

In recent decades, we have also seen incredible progress in the prevention and treatment of HIV/AIDs. Thanks to the work of epidemiologists and the President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), it is possible that AIDS will no longer be considered a public health threat by as soon as 2030.

We have also seen the potential power of disease surveillance and vaccination campaigns in the near eradication of polio. In fact, the WHO certified the United States as polio-free back in 1994, and today, the only countries where outbreaks continue to occur are those where immunization rates are extremely low.

Your Role in Supporting Global Health Initiatives

Thinking about getting into epidemiology or global health? Then it is important to understand your roles and responsibilities in this critical line of work.

Raising Awareness

First, those considering careers in public health or global health should be prepared to share as much information as possible about GHIs and their potential impact. This includes advocating for increased funding and support whenever possible. All too often, GHIs fail due to a lack of funding and overall interest. That said, this doesn't have to be the case when the public is better informed and aware of the potential behind GHIs.

Contributing to the Effort

Meanwhile, aspiring public health professionals can explore career opportunities in global health and epidemiology after completing their formal education and training. Taking the time to volunteer with organizations committed to global health initiatives, as well as supporting research and innovation in epidemiology, can make all the difference.

If you have a bachelor's degree under your belt in nursing, healthcare, or a related field, you might consider an online MPH in epidemiology as a means of transitioning into a career in global health. In this type of program, you'll also have the opportunity to explore concepts and best practices in disease prevention, disease control, recovery, and much more.

Ready to Advance Your Public Health Career?

The field of epidemiology guides global health initiatives in a number of critical ways, so the disciplines of global health and epidemiology are inextricably linked. If you're interested in making a real difference when it comes to controlling and preventing the spread of infectious diseases worldwide, then an advanced degree in epidemiology may be the next logical step.

At Texas A&M, we're proud to offer an online master's of public health degree program with a focus on epidemiology. This program is designed for two groups of students: recent college graduates who want to break into the field of public health and working healthcare professionals ready to pivot to work in disease recovery, prevention, and control.