In recent years, the landscape of public health has been transformed by unprecedented access to high-quality data, advances in data storage and processing, and a growing willingness to share information across jurisdictions. The global response to the COVID-19 pandemic exemplified how coordinated data use and technological innovation can accelerate decision-making, enhance surveillance, and save lives. These developments mark a new era in which the application of modern data analytics in evidence-driven public health practices is not only possible but essential.

Building on this momentum, contemporary innovations are contributing to significant improvements in the three Es of public health: efficiency, effectiveness, and equity. Improved efficiency enables resources to be allocated and managed in a manner that generates the maximum attainable outputs; enhanced effectiveness ensures that public health policies, interventions, and practices achieve the expected health outcomes; and strengthened equity promotes fair access to healthcare and public health services across all populations. Together, these dimensions reflect the evolving priorities and capabilities of modern public health systems.

This Collection, “Digital Frontiers in Public Health: Data-driven Solutions and Technologies for Efficiency, Effectiveness, and Equity,” invites contributions that explore these themes through empirical studies, methodological advancements, case studies, and policy analyses. We seek manuscripts that highlight innovative data applications, cross-sector collaborations, digital health initiatives, and strategies that enhance equity through technology and data integration, as well as collaborative public health practices.

Topics of interest include, but are not limited to:

- Applications of novel data linkage and analytics methods in public health

- The role of participation and co-creation in addressing public health issues

- Digital and technological innovations in public health

- Complete or partial assessments of triple Es in public health

- Economic evaluations of public health interventions

By showcasing diverse approaches from around the world, this Collection aims to provide a comprehensive overview of how data-driven innovations are reshaping public health practice today, and in the future. Researchers, practitioners, and policymakers are encouraged to share their insights and experiences to contribute to this critical dialogue on the future of public health.

This Collection supports and amplifies research related to SDG 3.

Keywords: digital applications; data sharing; data infrastructure; economic evaluations; health equity; public health; policy analysis; health informatics

Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) such as diabetes, asthma, congenital heart conditions, and childhood cancers are increasingly recognized as significant contributors to morbidity and mortality among children and adolescents. Despite their growing impact, pediatric NCDs are often underrepresented in health policies and global health agendas, which traditionally focus on infectious diseases or adult populations.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF, NCDs are responsible for approximately 20% of all deaths among adolescents aged 10–19 globally. Moreover, over 50% of disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) in this age group are attributed to NCDs, with mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, and conduct disorders being the leading contributors. The burden is not only medical but also social and economic. Children with chronic conditions often face stigma, reduced educational opportunities, and long-term health complications. Additionally, 70% of premature adult deaths from NCDs are linked to behaviors that begin in childhood and adolescence, such as poor diet, physical inactivity, and exposure to tobacco and alcohol.

Despite this, pediatric NCDs remain under-prioritized in global health strategies. Addressing them requires a life-course approach that includes early prevention, integrated care, and supportive environments. Strengthening health systems to respond to pediatric NCDs is essential for achieving universal health coverage and sustainable development goals.

This Collection supports and amplifies research related to SDG 3.

Keywords: Pediatric Non-Communicable Diseases, Child and Adolescent Health, Chronic Illness in Children, Mental Health, Early-Life Risk Factors, Global Health and NCDs