11/30/2025
- Data Science, Research, and Epidemiology Division
New data for Tobacco Retail Density in Massachusetts cities and towns is now available for 2021. Tobacco retail density is a measure of the concentration of tobacco availability in a given area. Massachusetts requires retailers to have a license in order to sell tobacco products, which allows for the tracking of tobacco retailers across the state. Retailers can include convenience and corner stores, gas stations, liquor stores and supermarkets, as well as adult-only (21+) retail tobacco stores such as tobacco shops and e-cigarette/vape shops.
Data Science, Research, and Epidemiology Division
The Data Science, Research, and Epidemiology Division includes the Public Health Data Warehouse, Health Survey Program, and Institutional Review Board. We lead the Department’s efforts to use big data, data linkages, advanced analytics, and data visualization techniques to guide public health planning and respond to emerging and ongoing public health concerns; run two statewide health and risk behavior surveys; and oversee access to confidential data and human subjects research.