The role of epidemiology in urban health

In the context of urban health, it is essential to ensure continuous data collection and analysis through structured and long-term epidemiological programs. These programs should integrate evidence from the scientific literature with locally generated data. Such an approach makes it possible, on the one hand, to capture the specific characteristics of different urban contexts and, on the other, to assess the effects of implemented policies. Moreover, it allows for anticipating and estimating potential health impacts under future scenarios, as well as promptly identifying emerging critical issues. Only by combining global evidence with continuously updated local information is it possible to effectively guide strategies for disease prevention and health promotion in urban settings.