Mathematical Modeling of Epidemics - Are We Confronting or Amplifying Health Inequities?
Explore the intersection of mathematical modeling and health equity in this Keyfitz Lecture on Mathematics and the Social Sciences. Delve into fundamental insights from epidemic theory and disease transmission models, examining their placement within causal frameworks of health inequities. Critically analyze assumptions of trickle-down public health and the potential misrepresentation of "equity" in model interpretations. Through examples from HIV, COVID-19, and mpox modeling, evaluate whether current approaches are reducing or amplifying health disparities. Gain valuable perspectives from Dr. Sharmistha Mishra, an Associate Professor and Clinician Scientist specializing in infectious diseases and mathematical modeling, as she challenges viewers to consider the broader societal impacts of epidemic modeling in public health decision-making.