Translational epidemiology: some considerations

Abstract

Following a review of some historical contributions of translational epidemiology (TransEpi), we describe a possible process of translating and implementing public policies, programmes or interventions based on levels of evidence. Two TransEpi strategies are then discussed - decision analysis and sensitivity analysis -, the purpose of which is to support the decision-making process when different programmatic options are being considered. Concepts relevant to TransEpi are then discussed, namely the role in Public Health of associations resulting from confounding factors, the primacy of the additive model for TransEpi and the possible interpretations of the concepts of homogeneity and heterogeneity of epidemiological study results, on which the translation of knowledge depends. Finally, the main differences between TransEpi and academic epidemiology are summarized.

Uses of Epidemiology; Epidemiologic Measurements; Epidemiology; Attributable Risk