ISSN Imprimir: 2151-805X
ISSN On-line: 2151-8068
Engineering and the Prevention of Global Chronic Disease: Forging Partnerships Between Engineers and Public Health Leaders
RESUMO
Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are driven by factors that influence how we live, work, age, play and pray−which are themselves influenced by our environment, its design, and our communities. We argue that engineers possess a unique capability to improve health by alleviating the growing burden of NCDs. We discuss specific ways in which engineers can improve the natural environment, the built environment, the food system, and medical diagnostics. Further, we call on the university community to firmly animate and situate the role of the engineer in fighting for public health. Engineers have a duty to prioritize the public good. Engineers must now be empowered to view themselves as agents of public health.