It is with great pleasure that we take this opportunity to officially

It is with great pleasure that we take this opportunity to officially invite the members of the International Epidemiological
Association to consider Saskatoon, Canada proposal to host the 2020 World Congress of Epidemiology.
We believe that the combined strengths of the University of Saskatchewan and the City of Saskatoon in the rapidly
growing province of Saskatchewan are well suited to the Congress. We also believe that conference attendees would
form deep and engaging connections during their time here.
Saskatoon is home to two of Canada’s state-of-the-art science resources—the Canadian Light Source Synchrotron and
VIDO-InterVac (Vaccine and Infectious Disease Organization/International Vaccine Centre).
The University of Saskatchewan is home to world-class research, and is the only Canadian University to house the
following life sciences on one campus: medicine, veterinary medicine, agriculture, kinesiology, nursing, biology, and
toxicology, to name a few. Our graduate schools of public health, public policy and environment and sustainability offer
other dimensions for science coverage. As such, we are uniquely poised for rich multi-disciplinary endeavors. The
University of Saskatchewan is part of a dynamic research cluster that includes other research agencies such as the
Saskatchewan Research Council, Ag-West Bio, Genome Prairie, the National Hydrology Centre, and Innovation Place –
one of the most successful university related research parks in North America.
The Canadian proposal for WCE 2020 has the support of a number of key organizations:
Karen Chad Vice-President of Research University of Saskatchewan “We are confident that the University of
Saskatchewan with its partners can deliver an exciting program that will appeal to current and future epidemiologists from
all corners of the globe.”
Ian Culbert Executive Director Canadian Public Health Association “Canada, and Saskatoon in particular, is the ideal
location for WCE 2020 due to the confluence of leading organizations hosted by or associated with the University of
Saskatchewan.”
Thy Dinh President Canadian Society of Epidemiology and Biostatistics (CSEB) “ The Saskatoon bid Committee has been
exceptional in their outreach and willingness to create networks across Canada to ensure a successful event in 2020,
Saskatoon is ideally positioned to act as a WCE host city for Canada and has previous experience in hosting large
events.”
Niels Koehncke Director Canadian Centre for Health and Safety in Agriculture “CCHSA has a strong epidemiology
foundation and considerable experience hosting seven International Symposiums, the most recent in October 2014”.
Dr. L Butler Dean, College of Nursing “The Province of Saskatchewan has recently made a significant investment into
new buildings for health research and for the education of our students in many disciplines in the health sciences. We
welcome the opportunity to display our new buildings and their activities.”
Patrick Odnokon CEO Saskatchewan Health Research Foundation “Please know that SHRF will commit financial support
for this exciting initiative as well as our participation in the successful planning for the 2020 World Congress of
Epidemiology”
I invite you to review our incredible proposal and consider Saskatoon, Canada as the location for the 2020 World
Congress of Epidemiology.
Should Saskatoon be considered we would be pleased to provide a site visit to a member of the board to view the
incredible benefits of hosting the 2020 Epidemiology conference in our city which would include:
o Air fare, Hotel Accommodation, Food & beverage
o opportunity to meet our local committee
o experience our city
Should Saskatoon be chosen we would be pleased to provide
o $30,000.00cdn to be used towards bursary’s to assist young epidemiologists to attend the
2020 conference in Saskatoon, Canada
To see our in-depth bid proposal including letters of support please visit the electronic version at
http://www.saskatoonbid.com/IEA-WCE
To view our in-depth proposal including support letters please visit http://www.saskatoonbid.com/IEA-WCE
The bid committee consists of representatives from a
diverse group from across Canada. It is made up of
seasoned leadership, from amongst university research
leaders, governments, research councils, and the city of
Saskatoon.
of the 22nd WCE has the special commitment and
particular strength in this quickly emerging One Health
perspective.
The shape of the scientific program –
some early thoughts
Dr. Nazeem Muhajarine
University of Saskatchewan School of Public Health and College
of Medicine – Community Health & Epidemiology
Dr. Anne Leis, PhD
Professor and Department Head, University of Saskatchewan
Department of Community Health & Epidemiology, College of
Medicine
Josh Marko, MPH
Epidemiologists, Saskatoon Health Region, Public Health
Observatory
Brandace Winquist, PhD, MSc, BA (hons)
Director of Decision Support, Cypress Health Region, Research
Consultant, Health Quality Council
Ida Sadowski
Saskatchewan Polytechnic, Regina Campus Instructor, Health
Information Management, Chair Saskatchewan Epidemiological
Association
Niels Koehncke MD, MSc, FRCPC.
Chief Occupational Medical Officer, Saskatchewan Ministry of
Labour Relations and Workplace Safety, Specialist in
Occupational Medicine , Associate Professor, University of
Saskatchewan Department of Medicine , Canadian Centre for
Health and Safety in Agriculture – CCHSA
Brad Peters
Tourism Saskatoon Director International Sales
James Jackman
Tourism Saskatoon International Task Force
Scientific program and proposed theme
Preamble
Reviewing the conference themes of the past three IEA’s
World Congresses of Epidemiology, few observations
stands out. All three themes are imbued by the metanarratives of a ‘changing world’, the global dimensions,
and epidemiology as a possible solution for emerging,
evolving and enduring health problems. Continuing with
these meta-themes, the proposed theme for 22nd WCE
will be:
“One World, One Health: Endless Epidemiology”.
One difference highlighted by our theme, however, is that
while recognizing the reality of dynamic changes (in
environments, populations, diseases, and locales) we will
pay particular attention to the unity or the oneness of our
health problems. The terms ‘One World’ and ‘One Health’
not only captures the fact that we all live in one planet and
our humanity has a binding power rather than dividing,
they also refer specifically to the emerging area of
research and action that integrates human health, animal
health and the environment (in other words, One Health).
The University of Saskatchewan and the key proponents
Changing environments from local level to global
ecosystems, combined with population and demographic
changes and movements, combined with emerging and
re-emerging diseases will frame the construction of our
scientific program. We will pay attention to continuing or
enduring health issues, whether they be obesity,
cardiovascular health, cancer, occupation and
environmental health, injuries, mental health, or to a range
of social determinants of health and their implications such
as health inequalities and inequities, North – South
disparities, and health transitions and consequences of
rapidly developing economies. We will not stop at
describing and analyzing the myriad of health problems,
but will interrogate the successes of many ways of
responding to them—such as, from a global scale,
attaining Millennial Developmental Goals, Grand Health
Challenges; policy responses such as to global disease
outbreaks (Ebola is a fine recent example) and to humanmade and natural disasters (wars, tsunami, earthquakes
for example). The aim will be to construct a program that
will achieve two objectives simultaneously: a coherent,
organizing framework (One Health) and a diversity of
examples and cases where epidemiology has provided
solutions (Endless Epidemiology).
With this dual aim (coherence, diversity) as the guiding
principles we will construct a program that exposes the
delegates to some of the most compelling thoughtleaders/practitioners in the field (through daily anchor
keynotes) followed by diverse sessions (in format, content,
method of interaction) that maximize dialogue and
exchange rather than the usual format of presenter
followed by Q & A sessions. For example, we will develop
concurrent mini-sessions (‘Epi-Talks) in a theatre format
that will invite and encourage rapid-fire exchanges of
some of the most interesting ideas of the time in our field.
We will have interactive poster sessions using multi-media
rather than the usual ‘passive’ poster viewing, in order to
maximize ideas exchange and dialogue.
If successful with our bid, we will widely and strategically
consult with our professional community of
epidemiologists, experts in event planning and health
decision-makers. We will consult with chairs of organizing
committees and program committees of each of the past
three WCE conferences to understand what worked and
what didn’t in mounting their conferences. We will work
with organizers of the 21st WCE to learn from their
organization of the event in 2017. Importantly, we will work
very closely with IEA to plan and execute a most
memorable (intellectually and experientially) World
Epidemiology Congress in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan,
Canada.
To view our in-depth proposal including support letters please visit http://www.saskatoonbid.com/IEA-WCE
WHY SASKATOON, SASKATCHEWAN
The foundations are strong for epidemiologic research and practice in Saskatoon. The University of Saskatchewan is
located in the heart of Saskatoon along the beautiful South Saskatchewan River. Known as one of the most picturesque
campuses in the country it is the only Canadian University to house six Life Science colleges: Medicine, Veterinary
Medicine, Nursing, Pharmacy & Nutrition, Dentistry and Kinesiology. With an annual research income of over $200million, the University of Saskatchewan is a host to many cutting edge facilities such as VIDO-InterVac (Vaccine and
Infectious Disease Organization/International Vaccine Centre). Innovation Place and the Canadian Light Source
Synchrotron.
The University of Saskatchewan identified "epidemiology" as one of the Western College of Veterinary Medicine
(WCVM) key strengths to be promoted and supported.
 Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences identified "the practical application of epidemiologic methods in the
real world, with real life problems," as the WCVM's strength in the broadening field of epidemiology.
 Centre for Applied Epidemiology located on the University of Saskatchewan Campus was formed to showcase
the applied research.
 WCVM’s Disease Investigation Unit provides opportunities for students and faculty to explore the principles of
applied epidemiology in real-life disease investigations.
One Health is a global initiative that encourages collaboration among all health disciplines with the goal of attaining
optimal health for people, animals and the environment. One Health was identified by the University of Saskatchewan
President and Executive Council as one of six Signature Research Areas. Each Area is an “outstanding achievement
enabled by our research capacity, investments, history and sense of place.” One Health has been defined as a "strategy
to better understand and address the contemporary health issues created by the convergence of human, animal, and
environmental domains." Because One Health is a multi-disciplinary topic, it requires the expertise of faculty and
researchers which are all located on the University of Saskatchewan campus, including the Western College of
Veterinary Medicine, School of Public Health, College of Medicine, Vaccine and Infectious Disease Organization
(VIDO-Intervac), College of Agriculture and Bioresources, and the Toxicology Centre. The establishment of
the School of Public Health and One Health initiatives on campus have created a formal recognition of the historical
connection between public and animal health (specifically in epidemiology) on the university campus.
Department of Community Health and Epidemiology (CH&E) has a research intensive; faculty that engages in leading
edge research, with excellent ability to access grants and develop/lead national research networks. The department is
home to two new research chairs: a CRC Tier 2 Chair in Aboriginal Health, and the Louis Schulman Chair in Cancer
Research.
There are eight related research and educational support units whose faculty and staff are located in the Department of
Community Health and Epidemiology:
 The Saskatchewan Population Health Research and Evaluation Unit
 The Indigenous People’s Health Research Centre
 The Saskatchewan Cancer Control Research Program
 The Prairie Region Health Promotion Research Centre
 The Training for Health Renewal Program in Canada and Mozambique
 The Prairie Women’s Health Centre of Excellence
 The Centre for Integrative Medicine
 The Education and Development Support Unit of the College of Medicine
Canadian Centre for Health and Safety in Agriculture (CCHSA) located in Saskatoon is a new national centre of
excellence that has an expanded mandate in the fields of agricultural safety and rural health. The Canadian Centre
focuses its resources on addressing public health issues related to the agricultural rural ecosystem and bridge gaps that
occur between the spectra of basic research, applied research, the community and policy.
To view our in-depth proposal including support letters please visit http://www.saskatoonbid.com/IEA-WCE
Saskatchewan Epidemiology Association(SEA) is a network of epidemiologists, students and practitioners who are
leaders in the application of epidemiology in Saskatchewan. The SEA is involved in advancing the understanding and
application of epidemiology through continuing education and network events. SEA has built a strong reputation for
hosting symposiums and workshops over more than a decade by recruiting presenters who are leading researchers in the
fields of human health and veterinary medicine. The annual symposium attracts close to 100 health professionals each
year from across Saskatchewan with an interest in epidemiology. In addition to providing a forum for sharing research and
information, the symposium and workshop provides an opportunity for participants to network, thereby laying the
groundwork for future collaboration. The World Congress of Epidemiology would provide a great forum for learning and
networking for all SEA members.
Saskatchewan Cancer Agency epidemiology research unit was initiated in 1997. Its purpose is to maximize the impact
of cancer research, enhance wellness, and reduce morbidity and mortality from cancer through increased understanding
of cancer causes, prevention and control.
WHY CANADA
Canada has a strong foundation for epidemiologic research and practice. The Public Health Agency of Canada was
created to deliver on the Government of Canada’s commitment to help protect the health and safety of all Canadians. Its
activities focus on preventing chronic diseases, like cancer and heart disease, preventing injuries and responding to public
health emergencies and infectious disease outbreaks. Some initiatives that support epidemiologic practice from the Public
Health Agency of Canada include the Canadian Field Epidemiology Program (CFEP) and the Skills Online modules.
These programs train public health professionals in applied epidemiology—the specialized techniques and competencies
required to respond to diverse public health issues in real-life settings. The CFEP mobilizes field epidemiologists
anywhere they are needed within Canada or around the world, supporting public health organizations as they respond to
urgent public health events. Field placements throughout the country create and nourish a vibrant network of public health
professionals to promote the sharing of ideas, insights and information.
The Canadian Society for Epidemiology and Biostatistics (CSEB) is a Canadian organization founded in 1990 for the
purpose of fostering epidemiology and biostatistics research in Canada. The Society facilitates communication among
epidemiologists and biostatisticians, and assists faculty or schools of medicine and public health to improve training in
these disciplines. The organization brings together individuals working in research, students, health care professionals,
statisticians, and biostatisticians from across the country and from other parts of the world.
Potential Supporters
The local organising committee is currently working with a number of organisations across Canada as we move towards a
successful conference in 2020. The local organising committee understands that support at a local, national and
international level is essential to creating a truly 'international' conference and as such has collaborated with the following
organisations:
To view our in-depth proposal including support letters please visit http://www.saskatoonbid.com/IEA-WCE
To view our in-depth proposal including support letters please visit http://www.saskatoonbid.com/IEA-WCE
SASAKATOON SASKATCHEWAN CANADA
Saskatoon
Saskatoon is Saskatchewan's largest city and is to be
found on either side of the South Saskatchewan River.
We proudly say that we are one of the sunniest cities in
Canada, its pure delight. The skies are bright and the air
is fresh, that is why we say “Saskatoon Shines.” The
people shine too – radiating genuine warmth you won’t
find anywhere else.
Saskatoon Attractions
Saskatoon proves to not only be the perfect place to
hold a meeting but also has been noted to be a great
destination for delegates when they are outside of
conference hours. Saskatoon offers a number of
energetic and vibrant cultural venues, natural attractions,
and conservation areas within and around the city limits.
Discover a slice of history at the Western Development
Museum or learn about First Nations culture and
Saskatchewan’s history at Wanuskewin Heritage Park.
Take in the Old Western culture at Champetre Country,
discover some of Saskatchewan’s most inspiring artists
at the Remai Modern Art Gallery or explore a city
renowned for its scenery through kilometers of river
trails. Take time to unwind and enjoy Saskatoon’s
shopping, many unique golf courses or recreation areas
ending the day with a taste of Saskatoon’s fine dining
and nightlife
Saskatchewan
The Canadian province of Saskatchewan is home to
many exclusive experiences and attributes which are
sure to please the delegates. Saskatchewan is located
in Western Canada between the provinces of Alberta
and Manitoba, and directly north of the U.S. states of
North Dakota and Montana. It is vast in size and rich in
breathtaking landscapes and experiences that stimulate
the senses and nourish the soul. From rugged badlands
to fertile fields, through to mysterious valleys and rolling
central parklands, up to a massive northern boreal forest
that shelters 100,000 pristine lakes and an abundance of
fish and wildlife. Saskatchewan is undoubtedly a place of
enjoyment and its guests can relish in the diversity of
visiting during any of the four distinct seasons. These
provincial treasures are all found under a dome of
brilliant blue sky by day, while dramatic sunrises and
sunsets and dancing northern lights contribute to the
spectacle of Saskatchewan’s “living skies.”
Saskatchewan Attractions
With a rich mix of history and culture, Saskatchewan
offers visitors endless freshwater fishing and waterbased recreation opportunities, abundant wildlife,
uncrowded parks, outdoor adventures like canoeing and
horseback riding, farm vacations and amazing and
accessible golf. Urban excitement, rural relaxation,
wilderness exploration, and parkland peace and quiet:
wherever your sense of adventure takes you, you’ll find
a warm Saskatchewan welcome
Welcome to Canada
Canada is a truly extraordinary destination and we invite
the delegates of 2020 World Congress on
Epidemiology to come and see what we have to
offer. Canada has evolved from its humble beginnings
to divers, multicultural democracy of 10 provinces and
three territories that has earned its place as a world
leader in many fields. We have a natural beauty from
mountains and glaciers to secluded lakes and forests, is
almost unparalleled worldwide. But Canada's appeal is
not just the great outdoors; Canada has cosmopolitan
cities that are clean, safe, friendly and multicultural. In
fact, Canada repeatedly is lauded as one of the world's
most livable countries. Find yourself strolling the vibrant
cities, discovering prairie culture, sampling our exquisite
food and wine, partaking in adventure and sports or just
simply relaxing enjoying the breathtaking scenery – you
will soon find there is something in Canada for everyone
To view our in-depth proposal including support letters please visit http://www.saskatoonbid.com/IEA-WCE
Facilities
Saskatoon is home to many conference facilities that
offer ample room to comfortably host over 3,000
delegates. Delectable catering and friendly easy-going
staff will highlight a well-organized day.
State-of-the-art audio-visual equipment makes it
effortless to follow the speakers every word, ensuring
nothing is missed. With several hotels, restaurants and
entertainment venues, it’s easy to extend conversations
with colleagues and new business contacts outside of
scheduled conference events.
TCU Place
Located in
downtown
Saskatoon
TCU Place –
Saskatoon’s
Art and
Convention
Centre offers
104,000
square feet of
meeting and banquet space, 21 meeting rooms and
2,027 three-tier soft-seat theatre with a full production
stage. Convention space features a flexible wall system,
dedicated registration area, and state-of-the-art, built-in
audio-visual equipment. Features include 19-foot
ceilings, wall-to-wall carpet, a wall of natural light and a
different ambience on each level. The facility can
accommodate small to large events.
TCU Place’s creativity shows when planning meals; and
staff will design special menus to suit each event. TCU
Place is considered one of the best conference centres
in Western Canada.
Prairieland Park
As Saskatoon’s
largest
tradeshow and
convention
facility,
Prairieland Park
is only five
minutes from
downtown and
offers free paved parking for 3,000 vehicles.
The Trade Centre with 240,000 square feet of meeting
space under one roof consists of six air-conditioned halls
connected by a common foyer. The newly renovated
Hall A features five breakout rooms with a common area
to accommodate a plenary session. Breakout rooms
features soundproof walls, up-to-date audio-visual
equipment, padded chairs, risers, and more. Prairieland
Park provides all the amenities and services require for
any event.
Prairieland Park has a reputation of providing premier
quality food service, ranging from coffee service to full
service banquets for as many as 5,000 people.
Saskatoon Prairieland Park continues to facilitate
national and regional trade shows, conventions,
conferences, meetings and banquets.
Transport
The country of Canada is as diverse and unique as
those who call it home. Being the second largest country
in the world by total area, Canada boasts a vastness and
variety of geography, ecology, vegetation, landforms,
cultures and peoples. Saskatchewan as a province
boasts superior ease of access to both the east coast
and west coast of Canada and the United States, as well
as being a midpoint between Europe and Asia markets.
You will find that Saskatchewan is well positioned in the
world to attract delegates and exhibitors from all over the
globe.
Air Services
Conveniently once
arriving at the
Saskatoon John G.
Diefenbaker
International Airport
it is located only 15
minutes from the
city centre.
Numerous daily flights from major cities and air transport
hubs are served by the national and international air
carrier systems.
John G Diefenbaker International Airport Expansion
$53 million
project that
began in 2012,
with completion
date of early
2016, the
expansion will
feature a pier
design offering
eight bridgeable gates along with three ground-load
positions, an opportunity for a variety of food, beverage,
and retail services as well as a business lounge. All
these features and expanded services will be primarily
post-security. Increased seating capacity is a primary
focus and will incorporate comfortable seating areas,
business stations, fireplaces and children’s play areas.
To view our in-depth proposal including support letters please visit http://www.saskatoonbid.com/IEA-WCE
Accommodations
With 4,500 guest rooms and growing, new hotels are
designed and constructed due to the incredible growth in
tourism and convention business over the past few
years. In Saskatoon we offer a wide range of hotels to fit
any traveler from 5 star hotels to economic choices.
Many features a variety of on-site comforts, such as
restaurants, friendly lounges, spas and fully equipped
rooms, guests will be thrilled to enjoy ample relaxation.
As guest explore the nearby friendly and vibrant
neighbourhoods, they will feel right at home making
lasting memories in a city that is warm and open.
Delta Bessborough
Saskatoon’s historic “Castle
of the River” is located
between two city centre
parks on the banks of the
South Saskatchewan River.
This grand hotel has long
stood as the city’s most
enduring landmark. The
hotel features 225 newly renovated guestrooms which
features modern amenities combined with the character
and ambiance of a heritage landmark hotel. Located in
the lobby; Damara Day Spa which offers a wide range of
therapies and esthetic treatments.
Hilton Garden Inn
Located in the heart of
Saskatoon’s downtown
business district, the HGI is
ideally situated across the
street from both TCU Place
and the Midtown Plaza,
Saskatchewan’s largest
shopping mall. They offer
180 guest rooms, including a wide range of room types
and two hospitality suites. The hotel also offers a heated
indoor pool, whirlpool and fitness centre and with
multiple food and beverage outlets, Everything. Right
where you need it
Park Town Hotel
Situated on the banks of the
beautiful South Saskatchewan
River in downtown Saskatoon,
across from the University of
Saskatchewan campus, the Park
Town Hotel offers 173 newly
renovated and well-appointed
guest rooms with a variety of
standard and executive rooms. The Presidential Suite
offers a spectacular view of the river, a spacious living
room, loft bedroom, and master bath with a Jacuzzi tub
and more.
Radisson Hotel
The 291 spacious guest
rooms and suites are filled
with sophisticated décor
and plush furnishings to
help you feel at home while
on the road. Outside, views
of the city and river valley
serve to inspire, while
inside, the modern
amenities anticipate your every need. The Radisson
offers a lobby business centre, Piccadilly Place Gift
Shop, and high-speed internet in all the guestrooms and
public areas
Sheraton Cavalier Hotel
Ideally situated in
downtown and overlooking
the stunning South
Saskatchewan River.
Offering 237 newly
renovated guest rooms
that are current and thoughtfully designed, while offering
you a clean environment that is 100% smoke free.
Holiday Inn Downtown
The first high-rise hotel to be
built in downtown in
Saskatoon in 30 years, this
11 storey building across the
street from TCU Place, has
159 beautifully appointed
guest rooms including 24
upscale suites and three
penthouse apartment suites.
The James Hotel
Saskatoon’s 59 room
and suite luxury
boutique hotel
centrally located in
vibrant downtown, on
the banks of the South
Saskatchewan River.
Offering
contemporary, spacious and thoughtfully designed
suites; with furnished private balconies to enjoy the
picturesque Meewasin Valley. A team of professionals
provide a fresh perspective on the guest experience,
offering traveller’s uncompromised quality, comfort, and
a truly memorable stay.
To view our in-depth proposal including support letters please visit http://www.saskatoonbid.com/IEA-WCE