Happy New Year, and welcome to another exciting year with the Epidemiology Section of APHA.  2010 included many public health epidemiologic challenges, including: the largest oil spill in U.S. history; the largest egg recall; an earthquake that devastated Haiti, followed by a cholera outbreak killing thousands; and, the first steps of the Affordable Health Care Act.  An epidemiologist can be at the forefront of all of these significant events by planning the studies needed to determine the long-term effects of the oil spill on the social and environmental ecologies; collecting and presenting the evidence needed to energize efforts to pass a stalled food safety bill; and evaluating efforts post disaster related to maintaining safe water conditions after natural disasters.  To be prepared for future challenges, all epidemiologists must participate in training the next generation of epidemiologists.  We must continue to reinforce the epidemiologic work force by mentoring enthusiastic individuals, i.e. those with new ideas and innovative approaches.  It is our responsibility to the public’s health.   

The Epidemiology Section is in the early stages of planning for the year’s activities, thus welcoming participation in all of our committees (Awards, Membership and Communications, Policy, Annual Program, Student).  The Section’s Governing Councilors will also soon embark upon review of proposed policies.  Expertise in all areas of public health are needed to round out and complete the reviews.  Please contact the Section’s GC Whip, Christing Arcari (cmarcari@utmb.edu),  if you can help with the reviews.  The Epidemiology Section has an active Student Committee with a strong group of advisors.  The collaborative efforts of these individuals help to reinforce the importance of service, within one’s career, with professional organizations such as APHA.

Thank you for choosing to be a member of the Epidemiology Section.  I hope you will use your epidemiologic expertise during the next epidemiologic challenge.