Use of data as a key to more targeted prevention

Those who use health data intelligently are able to identify risk factors early, evaluate the success of preventive measures and thus, based on evidence, invest in better care.

Why is data use so crucial?

• Identification of avoidable risks: Modern analytical methods can be used to expose correlations between specific living conditions, behavioral patterns and the development of diseases.
• Better evaluation of measures: From vaccination monitoring to the early detection of cardiac disorders – if data is collected and analyzed in a standardized way, it becomes obvious more quickly which prevention programs really work.
• Interventions tailored to the target group: In contrast to a scattergun approach, data allows decision-makers to focus on those areas with the greatest risks – whether identified by region, age, gender or certain social determinants.

Example project: AI4HealthyCities

An excellent example of how data can be used to support public health is the Novartis Foundation’s AI4HealthyCities program. This uses artificial intelligence and advanced data analysis to examine the relationship between various factors of everyday urban life – ranging from housing conditions, environmental and climate factors to income and education – and the incidence of cardiovascular disease.

• Global rollout: Launched in New York City in 2022, followed by Singapore and Helsinki, the project has now been up and running in Basel since January 2024.
• The focus in Basel: Together with the University Children’s Hospital Basel (UKBB) and other university, public and private partners, the initiative investigates possible social, behavioral and environmental factors that contribute most to the development of excess weight and obesity in children and adolescents, which is a major risk factors for cardiovascular disease in adulthood.
• The goal: Based on the knowledge gained, decision-makers from politics, healthcare and other sectors should be able to gain insights into how targeted initiatives and investments can achieve the greatest benefits for children’s health.

How pharmaceutical companies can provide support

• Data infrastructure and tools: With their expertise in clinical research, pharmaceutical companies can help develop standards for data collection, storage and analysis.
• Research partnerships: Pilot projects designed to focus on specific issues often develop out of collaborations between research institutes and health authorities.
• Enabling innovation: New technologies (e.g. digital health apps) and therapeutic approaches for disease prevention can be made available to the public in the form of specific services.

To Blog Part 1: Prevention as part of a sustainable Swiss healthcare system

To Blog Part 2: Targeted prevention and early detection are the key to long-term success

To Blog Part 3: Holistic strategy and coordination