Research in Epidemiology in Brazil: challenges, pathways, and commitments for the future.

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Epidemiology
• Health Policy

Background:

• The Fifth Strategic Plan for the Development of Epidemiology in Brazil (2025-2029) provides a framework for discussion.
• Brazilian Epidemiology has a history of significant advances but faces persistent challenges.

Purpose of the Study:

• To discuss the challenges and perspectives of Brazilian Epidemiology.
• To highlight the importance of a scientific agenda focused on quality, innovation, equity, and social transformation.
• To reaffirm Epidemiology's role as a critical, collaborative, and socially-referenced field.

Main Methods:

• The study is based on reflections from the Fifth Strategic Plan for the Development of Epidemiology in Brazil.
• Analysis of historical advances and current challenges in Brazilian Epidemiology.
• Discussion of emerging opportunities in open science and data democratization.

Main Results:

• Key challenges include chronic underfunding, regional/thematic inequalities, academic productivism, and the need to bridge science and society.
• Opportunities lie in open science, data access democratization, and enhancing research's social relevance.
• Epidemiology must contribute to health crisis response, reduce inequities, and support sustainable development.

Conclusions:

• Brazilian Epidemiology must adapt to evolving challenges while leveraging new opportunities.
• Strengthening the field requires addressing funding, equity, and societal engagement.
• A critical and collaborative approach is essential for Epidemiology to fulfill its mission.