Geospatial Approaches For Precision Public Health

Place and health are linked through a complex interplay of factors. Despite early recognition of the importance of this link, public health research has largely overlooked the potential of precise geographic information in the last decades. Recent advances have led to growing interest in spatial epidemiology and the emergence of precision public health. Here, we highlight the value of geospatial approaches towards achieving precision public health by providing a better assessment of population health, elucidate the mechanisms linking place and health, and develop successful local health interventions. Importantly, we highlighted the potential and the need for prioritised public health interventions, particularly in vulnerable communities. Furthermore, we developed geospatial digital tools to build bridges between precision public health research, decision-makers, and citizens and thus translate findings into action and impact, which is urgently needed to reduce the burden of disease and health disparities.