Harnessing data for impact: Transforming public health interventions through evidence-based decision-making

Olugbami, Oluwafunmilayo Ogundeko and Ogundeko, Oluwaseun and Lawan, Martha and Foster, Evelyn (2025) Harnessing data for impact: Transforming public health interventions through evidence-based decision-making. World Journal of Advanced Research and Reviews, 25 (1). pp. 2085-2103. ISSN 2581-9615

Data has become a cornerstone in transforming public health interventions, driving the shift towards evidence-based decision-making that ensures impactful and sustainable health outcomes. This manuscript explores the pivotal role of data in designing, implementing, and evaluating public health programs, emphasizing how robust evidence informs strategies to address pressing health challenges. With growing complexities in global health systems and disparities in resource allocation, leveraging data-driven insights has emerged as a vital approach to optimizing interventions, particularly in underserved and resource-limited populations. The manuscript begins by discussing the foundational importance of comprehensive data collection systems, highlighting the need for accuracy, consistency, and inclusivity in capturing diverse health metrics. It then examines the integration of innovative analytical methods, including machine learning and predictive analytics, to uncover trends, identify risk factors, and anticipate emerging health threats. Real-world examples illustrate how data transforms interventions, from enhancing disease surveillance to tailoring community-specific health initiatives. The application of evidence-based findings to public health decision-making is further explored, demonstrating how data empowers stakeholders to allocate resources efficiently, prioritize vulnerable populations, and evaluate program effectiveness. The manuscript also addresses challenges such as data privacy, infrastructure gaps, and disparities in access to analytical tools, offering actionable solutions to overcome these barriers. By aligning technological advancements with evidence-based approaches, this manuscript underscores the transformative potential of data in public health, paving the way for adaptive, equitable, and impactful interventions.