Thomas F. Babor, Ph.D., M.P.H.
Department of Community Medicine and Health Care
University of Connecticut School of Medicine
Farmington, Connecticut, United States
and
Robin Room, Ph.D.
University of Melbourne School of Population Health
AER Centre for Alcohol Policy Research
Turning Point Alcohol and Drug Centre
Fitzroy, Victoria, Australia
Thomas Babor and his NIDA Distinguished International Scientist Collaboration Award partner Robin Room have been leaders in the international effort to incorporate scientific evidence into the development of public health policies. They have made the case that population- and evidence-based public health approaches are available, feasible, and effective. Working with an international team of addiction research colleagues, Drs. Babor and Room have published comprehensive reviews of epidemiological, intervention, and policy research on abuse of illicit drugs and alcohol, providing scientists and policymakers with a uniquely international perspective on the global impact of drug and alcohol misuse and the effectiveness of different policy choices on local, national, and international levels. By focusing on the need to develop and implement evidence-based, coordinated, and realistic policies that will reduce the drug and alcohol abuse-related public health burdens of disease, disability, and social problems, their work will contribute significantly to global efforts to strengthen the links between addiction science and drug policy.