PHGN

Genetic epidemiology of chronic common diseases (like diabetes, obesity, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, osteoporosis, NAFLD etc.) in India is still far behind than the western world. Sceening of high risk groups based on genetic factors could only be possible once we able to detect the genetic variants responsible for these chronic diseases. There is a need of establishing fast-track large scale cohort studies (100,000 individuals) for understanding the underlying biological mechanisms of multiple diseases. PHFI can create that resource which is not only useful for research but also for training of new public health students.

Public health professionals have a variety of backgrounds and vast differences exist in the qualifications, experiences, education and training of health workers. New Research models are needed focussing on exploring competencies which correlate with performance at work and the means to improve these competencies through training and development.

HSR is undertaken primarily to provide information to support decision-making that can improve the functioning of the health system. It is evident that many issues in health are interrelated and interact with issues in other sectors, such as education, environment, health facilities and societal factors. In order to be effective, health systems research should be participatory in nature. Involvement of those directly concerned with a particular health or health care problem  including policymakers, managers from the health and other public services, health care providers and the community  is critical if research is to be relevant and appropriate.

Public health research needs greater interdisciplinarity and cross-sectoral synergies. There is a critical need to study the multiple determinants of health through a confluence of biological sciences, social and behavioral sciences, epidemiology and other economics and management sciences.

Incomplete integration of research methods and results in policy formulation often leads to inadequate or inappropriate policies. Researchers may not reach out to sensitize policymakers to the importance of public health evidence and efforts that are needed for better integration and utilization of research within health care organizations and systems. Understanding and using research effectively can go a long way in helping individuals and community-based organizations to impact the policy-making process to bring about policy change that benefits the health and sustainability of rural communities.