IHME Women in Health Metrics Spotlight: Dr. Diana Andreasyan, Deputy Director of the National Institute of Health of Armenia
Published April 4, 2025
This interview transcript has been lightly edited for clarity
What inspired you to pursue a career in science?
After graduating from Yerevan State Medical University, I pursued a clinical residency in epidemiology, where I delved into research on non-communicable diseases (NCDs), an emerging field in Armenia. Continuing my studies in a PhD program, I focused on assessing the burden of NCDs and their risk factors (smoking, alcohol consumption, physical inactivity, obesity, etc.). Recognizing that effective NCD policies require evidence-based research, I conducted my first scientific study on diabetes and risk factors prevalence among the Armenian population, reinforcing my belief in science’s role in shaping health care solutions. My passion for research and policy-driven impact inspired me to pursue a career that connects scientific inquiry with decision-making.
Can you share any challenges you’ve faced as a woman in this field and how you overcame them?
The main challenge in my career was selecting my scientific thesis, which focused on diabetes and risk factors. This was a new area in Armenia, and many epidemiologists believed that non-communicable disease epidemiology did not exist as a separate field, considering only infectious epidemiology.
Dr. Diana Andreasyan
“Never stop and always remember that your research is aimed at improving people's health. When your research achieves its goal, it is the greatest reward for a professional.”
How did you get involved with the GBD/IHME and how has it impacted the way you do your work?
Collecting, analyzing, and assessing health data, diseases, injuries, and risk factors is at the core of my professional work. IHME provides scientific data and metrics that help governments, researchers, and international organizations make informed health and policy decisions to improve population health.
I frequently used data on NCDs and risk factors, assessing their impact on public health in Armenia and comparing these findings with data from other countries and regions. For me, comparing Armenia’s situation with other countries has always been a priority.
In 2019, as part of a collaboration between the Armenian National Institutes of Health and IHME, the “Burden of Diseases” training was held in Yerevan, which was highly significant for our specialists. This project covered global health trends, identifying priority areas for intervention and evaluating the effectiveness of health care programs. The course was taught by Mohsen Naghavi, a Professor of Health Metrics Sciences. This training established the foundation for our fruitful collaboration. I am grateful to the specialists for their support and contributions to our partnership. Later, we prepared a Health System Performance Assessment (HSPA) national report that incorporated IHME data.
Can you share any ongoing projects or research you’re involved in that you are particularly proud of?
I am proud to be involved in the WHO Pan-European Leadership Academy, organized by the WHO Regional Office for Europe, which provided me with the knowledge of the main principles of leadership transformation. Currently I am working on ICD-11 implementation in Armenia. The research I am proud the most of includes HSPA, STEPS [STEPwise approach to surveillance], monitoring food and beverage marketing to children via TV, and the FEEDCities surveys.
How do you see the future of health metrics science evolving with more women in leadership roles?
In Armenia, there are no gender-related challenges in this field. To support young specialists in medical science, it is essential to provide grants and scholarships specifically for researchers. Interestingly, in Armenia, men need more support in scientific fields, as they are more involved in practical medicine. Armenian women hold leading roles and drive significant changes in health care and scientific research.
Can you share any success stories of significant impact in policy due to your research/policy work?
Since 2006, as part of Armenia’s HSPA program, research has been conducted on the prevalence of NCDs and risk factors among the population. The findings have served as the foundation for developing and implementing prevention programs for diabetes, hypertension, and cervical cancer, as well as anti-tobacco initiatives and health promotion campaigns.
How can we better recognize and celebrate the achievements of women in this field?
Recognizing and celebrating women’s achievements in science and health care in Armenia can be achieved through networking platforms, awards and recognition programs, public events, and mentorship initiatives. This would not only increase the visibility of women in these fields but also inspire future generations to pursue career success, ultimately raising the overall standard of science and health care in the country.
What advice would you give to young women interested in entering this field?
Never stop and always remember that your research is aimed at improving people’s health. When your research achieves its goal, it is the greatest reward for a professional.