Scientific Sessions

Molecular epidemiology is an evolving field that merges molecular biology with traditional epidemiological approaches to better understand the mechanisms, distribution, and control of diseases within populations. Recent advances in molecular epidemiology have revolutionized how we identify and track the genetic and environmental contributors to disease. Technologies such as next-generation sequencing, high-throughput genotyping, and bioinformatics tools allow researchers to detect specific genetic mutations, epigenetic modifications, and microbial pathogens with unprecedented precision. These developments enable earlier and more accurate diagnosis, better risk assessment, and the design of more effective targeted therapies and prevention strategies. In cancer, infectious diseases, and genetic disorders, molecular epidemiology has offered critical insights into how individual and population-level genetic variations influence disease progression and treatment outcomes.

Moreover, the integration of big data analytics and artificial intelligence with molecular epidemiological research is accelerating discoveries in public health. By analyzing large datasets from biobanks, electronic health records, and global disease registries, researchers can identify subtle patterns and associations that inform both policy and practice. Environmental molecular epidemiology is also gaining momentum, exploring the complex interplay between gene expression and environmental exposures like pollution, diet, and lifestyle. These insights are crucial for precision medicine and personalized public health strategies, allowing interventions to be tailored to specific genetic and environmental contexts. As the field continues to grow, molecular epidemiology is expected to play an increasingly vital role in predicting disease outbreaks, optimizing treatment regimens, and guiding health policy based on molecular-level evidence.