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Role of Field Epidemiology in Environmental and Climate Change-Related Health Incidents in Wales: A Qualitative Analysis Through Expert Interviews

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  • Omer Faruk Sonmez

    (Department of International Health, Care and Public Health Research Institute (CAPHRI), Maastricht University, 6200 MD Maastricht, The Netherlands
    School of Medicine and Population Health, University of Sheffield, Sheffield S10 2TN, UK
    Communicable Disease Surveillance Centre (CDSC), Public Health Wales NHS Trust, Cardiff CF10 4BZ, UK)

  • Behrooz Behbod

    (Communicable Disease Surveillance Centre (CDSC), Public Health Wales NHS Trust, Cardiff CF10 4BZ, UK)

  • Christopher Roberts

    (Communicable Disease Surveillance Centre (CDSC), Public Health Wales NHS Trust, Cardiff CF10 4BZ, UK)

  • Marco Barracchia

    (Department of International Health, Care and Public Health Research Institute (CAPHRI), Maastricht University, 6200 MD Maastricht, The Netherlands)

  • Astghik Baghinyan

    (Department of International Health, Care and Public Health Research Institute (CAPHRI), Maastricht University, 6200 MD Maastricht, The Netherlands
    School of Medicine and Population Health, University of Sheffield, Sheffield S10 2TN, UK)

  • Lichita Indra

    (Department of International Health, Care and Public Health Research Institute (CAPHRI), Maastricht University, 6200 MD Maastricht, The Netherlands
    School of Medicine and Population Health, University of Sheffield, Sheffield S10 2TN, UK)

  • Katarzyna Czabanowska

    (Department of International Health, Care and Public Health Research Institute (CAPHRI), Maastricht University, 6200 MD Maastricht, The Netherlands)

Abstract

Climate change and environmental degradation pose significant challenges to public health globally, intensifying the frequency and severity of related health incidents. Field epidemiology, traditionally focused on infectious disease outbreaks, is now increasingly recognised as vital in addressing environmental and climate-related health threats. This study explores how organisations like Public Health Wales (PHW) can develop field epidemiology services responsive to these emerging challenges. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 18 global and national experts in field epidemiology, environmental health, and related disciplines. An inductive content analysis approach was used to identify themes relating to best practices, challenges, competencies, and future directions in environmental field epidemiology. Key findings emphasise the necessity for integrated, multi-sectoral collaboration, capacity building in One Health competencies, and innovative surveillance systems that incorporate environmental and climate data and exposure measures. Participants highlighted barriers such as fragmented governance, data quality issues, and resource constraints. The evolving role of field epidemiology includes applications of environmental and climate-related health phenomena to encompass prevention, preparedness, and recovery phases, supported by technological advancements and holistic health security frameworks. To effectively address environmental and climate-related health incidents, field epidemiology services must evolve towards integrated, multidisciplinary, and adaptive frameworks. Organisations like PHW may consider strengthening international collaboration, investing in workforce development, and implementing integrated surveillance systems that incorporate environmental drivers of health. These strategic priorities align with global public health functions and support resilient health systems capable of mitigating climate-related health risks.

Suggested Citation

  • Omer Faruk Sonmez & Behrooz Behbod & Christopher Roberts & Marco Barracchia & Astghik Baghinyan & Lichita Indra & Katarzyna Czabanowska, 2025. "Role of Field Epidemiology in Environmental and Climate Change-Related Health Incidents in Wales: A Qualitative Analysis Through Expert Interviews," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 22(9), pages 1-20, September.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jijerp:v:22:y:2025:i:9:p:1452-:d:1752893
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Harriet Whiley & James C. Smith & Nicole Moore & Rebecca Burton & Nadia Conci & Helen Psarras & Kirstin E. Ross, 2023. "Climate Change and Health: Challenges to the Local Government Environmental Health Workforce in South Australia," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 20(14), pages 1-11, July.
    2. Wei Xun & Aneire Khan & Edwin Michael & Paolo Vineis, 2010. "Climate change epidemiology: methodological challenges," International Journal of Public Health, Springer;Swiss School of Public Health (SSPH+), vol. 55(2), pages 85-96, April.
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