Hygiena 2022, 67(2):49-55 | DOI: 10.21101/hygiena.a1811

Evidence-based public health: why it is important and how it differs from evidence-based clinical medicine

Michaela Špačková^{1, 2}, Kateřina Ivanová¹, Hana Orlíková², Jan Kynčl^{2, 3}, Radim Líčeník⁴

¹ Univerzita Palackého, Lékařská fakulta, Ústav veřejného zdravotnictví, Olomouc, Česká republika

² Státní zdravotní ústav, Oddělení epidemiologie infekčních nemocí, Centrum epidemiologie a mikrobiologie, Praha, Česká republika

³ Univerzita Karlova, 3. lékařská fakulta, Ústav epidemiologie a biostatistiky, Praha, Česká republika

⁴ Masarykova univerzita, Lékařská fakulta, České národní centrum Evidence-Based Healthcare a Knowledge Translation, Brno, Česká republika

The aim of the article is to summarise the main principles of evidence-based public health and to define in which particular ways it differs from evidence-based clinical medicine. The paradigm of evidence-based medicine has dominated clinical practice for 30 years. However, the evidence-based approach should also be applied in public health practice and based on a synthesis of the best available evidence, applicable theoretical models, professional experience and in-depth knowledge of a specific population, including adaptation to its preferences. Scientific argumentation should employ systematic work with data and information systems whilst evaluating large population units. The outputs are widely used in the creation of health programmes and policies. Final decisions are usually reached by consensus, so it is appropriate to get acquainted with the methodology of consensual methods. Public health professionals at all levels should be continually trained in evidence-based practice.

Keywords: evidence-based medicine (EBM), epidemiology, public health, health promotion

Received: April 2022; Accepted: May 10, 2022; Published: June 27, 2022  Show citation