Public Health

What is public health research?

Public health research focuses on investigating and addressing health-related issues and concerns at the population level. Its primary goal is to improve the health and well-being of communities and societies by understanding the factors that influence health, preventing diseases and injuries, and promoting healthy behaviours and policies.  This is a subset of 'clinical research' which does not mean research in a clinical environment but research involving or about the health of people.  

Public health research findings are used to inform public health policies, shape healthcare practices, and guide interventions aimed at improving population health and reducing health inequalities.

Public health research plays a critical role in preventing diseases, promoting health equity, and enhancing the overall quality of life for individuals and communities.

For further information on accessing, assessing or creating research evidence in public health, explore the NIHR pages on public health and our 'one-pager' with relevant links below.