The Influencing Discovery Exploration & Action Forum: An Initiative of the American Statistical Association

ABSTRACT

The field of statistics has a long and rich history of contributions to all sectors of the global economy and society. Our field is a cornerstone of the data and digital revolution we are witnessing today. Consider the role of statisticians in medical science and public health. Statisticians are key to developing new cures for diseases, ensuring patients receive safe and effective medicines, and supporting the delivery of care efficiently and effectively. The contributions of our profession were central to moving the pandemic to its endemic phase, safeguarding public health, and informing our understanding of the day-to-day impact of the pandemic on our populations. Our science and expertise helped with the rapid development, approval, and deployment of vaccines, educating the public and public health officials on the evolution and spatial-temporal extent of the virus, and collecting and communicating people's perspectives as they managed through the pandemic.