The Leibniz Institute for Prevention Research and Epidemiology - BIPS develops effective strategies for the prevention of chronic, non-communicable diseases. Supporting a healthy life-course early on is our primary goal. The focus of our research is therefore on factors beyond individual diseases, such as lifestyle and environment, biological and social factors, as well as early detection and drug safety. Our research spectrum covers methodological development, the identification of the causes of diseases, and intervention and implementation research. We also offer information to politicians and the general population and provide academic qualification to young scientists. BIPS thus covers the entire cycle of epidemiological research.
Three areas form the core of our research
1. Identifying causes of disease
Research on health risks and health-promoting factors.
Our etiological research aims at better understanding the impact of environmental, behavioral, and biological factors on the development of chronic non-communicable diseases. We are interested in both risk factors and health-promoting factors and their interactions. The research area also comprises investigation of the risks and benefits of health interventions, including pharmacological treatments. In this way, we provide the foundation for the design of effective preventive measures.
2. Promoting health
Research into effective measures to promote health and prevent diseases.
We are guided by the World Health Organization's comprehensive concept of health and conduct research on effective, equitable and sustainable approaches to prevention and health promotion. With our research, we develop innovative prevention measures for chronic diseases, investigate the implementation of these measures, and evaluate their effectiveness. Taking a local, regional or global health perspective, we work with different population groups and consider their living conditions. In addition to individual health behavior, we also investigate the societal conditions that influence this behavior. Our prevention research focuses on the participation of all stakeholders and the creation of a healthy living environment
3. Laying the methodological foundations
Developing appropriate methods for collecting, analyzing and validating epidemiological data.
The collection, processing and analysis of epidemiological research data are becoming increasingly complex. Therefore, we are working on innovative methods for data collection, are establishing intelligent data management systems and are developing appropriate statistical methods. In addition, we are improving methods for the validation of survey and measurement tools and for the evaluation of preventive measures. In addition, our institute makes a significant contribution to the development of modern research data infrastructures of international importance while adhering to the highest data protection standards.
We pursue seven central goals with our research
1. Understanding the interplay of health determinants
How do environmental, behavioral and biological factors influence our health?
2. Promoting child health
How to set the course for a healthy life at an early stage of life?
3. Improving drug safety
How to avoid the risks of drugs in routine care?
4. Exploring health in the digital era
What opportunities and risks does digitalization pose for health?
5. Implementing preventive measures effectively
What strategies facilitate the uptake of evidence-based programs?
6. Informing health-related decision-making
How to quantify risks and benefits of health interventions with observational data?
7. Leveraging complex health data
How can we develop intelligent methods for analyzing multidimensional data?