We, at the IECS’ Department of Research on Chronic Diseases aim at promoting health by creating scientific evidence and implementing interventions that prevent chronic diseases and optimize their comprehensive management.
WHY DO WE FOCUS ON CHRONIC DISEASES?
Chronic diseases including several cardiovascular conditions, cancer, diabetes and some respiratory diseases such as COPD and asthma, have a growing epidemiologic and economic impact. It is calculated that they account for 60% of deaths worldwide. However, the health system response to this challenge is insufficient.
Also, some patients with cancer and other chronic (non-malignant) diseases require early access to palliative care services in order to improve their quality of life. But, especially in Latin America, there are barriers to an adequate supply of these services.
WHAT ISSUES DO WE ADDRESS?
CENTERS OF EXCELLENCE IN RESEARCH
To address these issues, the Department holds three centers:
- The Center of Excellence in Cardiovascular Health for South America (CESCAS)
- The Center for Research and Implementation in Palliative Care (CII-CP)
- The Center for Excellence in Cancer Research (CEDIC)
The general purpose of these centers is to contribute to create knowledge, train Human Resources and promote adequate use of scientific evidence.
WHAT KIND OF RESEARCH DO WE CONDUCT?
Our interdisciplinary team primarily works on implementing research, health service research and population health research. Other research work our department conducts includes epidemiological studies and secondary data analysis.
