[Field epidemiology: an evolutionary perspective and contemporary challenges]

This paper provides a comprehensive review of the 70-year evolution of field epidemiology, examines its current state, and critically analyzes contemporary challenges and strategic responses. In Europe and the United States, the discipline has progressed from its conceptual inception to the publication of foundational academic works over nearly five decades, yet formal degree programs in field epidemiology remain relatively scarce. Over the past 50 years, the Field Epidemiology Training Program (FETP), modeled after the United States Epidemic Intelligence Service, has been adopted in more than 100 countries and regions. These programs primarily focus on investigating and mitigating public health emergencies to strengthen national health security. In China, field epidemiology has undergone a dynamic 25-year development, with FETPs established at national, provincial, municipal, and county levels earning international recognition and demonstrating robust expansion. The discipline has become an integral component of applied public health education in academic institutions, and several authoritative textbooks on field epidemiology have been published domestically. However, for field epidemiology to transition from an emerging concept to a well-established discipline, key challenges-including standardization, interdisciplinary integration, and global cooperation-must be addressed. Further theoretical research is essential to enhance preparedness and response capabilities for public health crises.