ABSTRACT
Data visualization has emerged as a powerful tool in public health, enabling professionals to interpret complex datasets, communicate findings effectively, and make informed decisions. This review explores the current landscape of data visualization tools and techniques used in public health, emphasizing their role in enhancing decision-making through analytics. With the growing volume and complexity of health data—ranging from epidemiological statistics to social determinants of health—there is an increasing demand for visualization methods that can reveal patterns, trends, and correlations in a comprehensible format. The study categorizes visualization tools into three main groups: general-purpose platforms (e.g., Microsoft Power BI, Tableau), programming-based tools (e.g., R with ggplot2, Python with Matplotlib and Seaborn), and domain-specific health informatics tools (e.g., WHO HealthMapper, CDC’s Epi Info). Each tool is evaluated based on usability, flexibility, data integration capabilities, and scalability for large datasets. Visualization techniques such as choropleth maps, heat maps, time-series plots, dashboards, and infographics are examined for their effectiveness in public health applications like disease surveillance, outbreak tracking, vaccination coverage, and resource allocation. Key findings indicate that interactive dashboards and geospatial visualizations significantly improve real-time monitoring and stakeholder engagement. The integration of machine learning with visualization platforms is also gaining traction, enabling predictive analytics and dynamic visual storytelling. However, challenges remain in terms of data quality, interoperability, privacy concerns, and the digital literacy required to use advanced tools effectively. This review highlights the critical need for capacity building and cross-sector collaboration to maximize the impact of data visualization in public health. By adopting user-centered design principles and leveraging open-source solutions, public health agencies can foster transparency, equity, and evidence-based decision-making. Future research should focus on developing standardized frameworks for evaluating visualization effectiveness and on integrating real-time, multidimensional data for more holistic insights.
References
- [1] Abieba, O. A., Alozie, C. E., & Ajayi, O. O. (2025). Enhancing disaster recovery and business continuity in cloud environments through infrastructure as code. Journal of Engineering Research and Reports, 27(3), 127-136.
- [2] Adaramola, T. S., Omole, O. M., Wada, I., Nwariaku, H., Arowolo, M. E., & Adigun, O. A. (2024). Internet of thing integration in green fintech for enhanced resource management in smart cities. World Journal of Advanced Research and Reviews, 23(2), 1317-1327.
- [3] Adegoke, S. A., Oladimeji, O. I., Akinlosotu, M. A., Akinwumi, A. I., & Matthew, K. A. (2022). HemoTypeSC point-of-care testing shows high sensitivity with alkaline cellulose acetate hemoglobin electrophoresis for screening hemoglobin SS and SC genotypes. Hematology, Transfusion and Cell Therapy, 44(3), 341-345.
- [4] Adekola, A.D., Alli, O.I., Mbata, A.O., & Ogbeta, C.P. (2023) ‘Integrating multisectoral strategies for tobacco control: evidence-based approaches and public health outcomes’, International Journal of Medical and All Body Health Research, 4(1), pp. 60-69. Available at: https://doi.org/10.54660/IJMBHR.2024.4.1.60-69
- [5] Adelodun, A. M., Adekanmi, A. J., Roberts, A., & Adeyinka, A. O. (2018). Effect of asymptomatic malaria parasitemia on the uterine and umbilical artery blood flow impedance in third‑trimester singleton Southwestern Nigerian pregnant women. Tropical Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, 35(3), 333-341.
- [6] Adelodun, M. O., & Anyanwu, E. C. (2024). A critical review of public health policies for radiation protection and safety.
- [7] Adelodun, M. O., & Anyanwu, E. C. (2024). Environmental and patient safety: Advances in radiological techniques to reduce radiation exposure.
- [8] Adelodun, M. O., & Anyanwu, E. C. (2024). Evaluating the Environmental Impact of Innovative Radiation Therapy Techniques in Cancer Treatment.
- [9] Adelodun, M. O., & Anyanwu, E. C. (2024). Global Standards in Radiation Safety: A Comparative Analysis of Healthcare Regulations.
- Adelodun, M. O., & Anyanwu, E. C. (2024). Health Effects of Radiation: An Epidemiological Study on Populations near Nuclear Medicine Facilities. Health, 13(9), 228-239.
- Adelodun, M. O., & Anyanwu, E. C. (2024). Integrating radiological technology in environmental health surveillance to enhance public safety.
- Adelodun, M. O., & Anyanwu, E. C. (2025). Public Health Risks Associated with Environmental Radiation from Improper Medical Waste Disposal.
- Adelodun, M. O., & Anyanwu, E. C. (2025). Recent Advances in Diagnostic Radiation and Proposals for Future Public Health Studies.
Download all article in PDF
