The Unique Space of Epidemiology: Drawing on the Past to Project Into the Future.

Epidemiology has always filled a unique space. It lies squarely at the intersection of the social and biological sciences as well as at the intersection of knowledge generation and the translation of that knowledge into actions. Today, new data sources, new methods, and continued population health problems create opportunities and challenges for epidemiology. In this commentary, 4 areas of opportunity for epidemiology are reviewed: 1) the continued value of precise description; 2) a rigorous yet broad and practical approach to drawing conclusions about causes; 3) embracing methodological diversity; and 4) retaining a strong connection to public health practice and policy.