Presentation

José da Rocha Carvalheiro

Editor Científico

The present number of Revista Brasileira de Epidemiologia is a special type of edition that has been long-awaited: a response to theoretical or methodological needs identified by the epidemiological community.

Since the Brasília Meeting, in August 2000, to prepare the II Epidemiology Master Plan in Brazil the lack of greater emphasis on impact evaluation had been identified. A little more than one year later, a Seminar to deal with the issue took place in Pelotas, coordinated by Revista's Associate Editor, Cesar G. Victora.

The same strict editorial procedure of anonymous peer review was used. The articles in which the Special Editor is an author were processed by the Scientific Editorial Board.

This number presents the results of the seminar, and what could make more sense than to entrust the Special Editing to Cesar Victora.

We are certain that our readers will greatly benefit from the joint effort of Abrasco's Epidemiology Committee, Revista's Editors and the Epidemiology Graduate Program of the Federal University of Pelotas. Enjoy your reading.