Epidemiology
Epidemiological research at IOM is led by Dr Brian Miller. The purpose of epidemiology is to provide reliable information about health effects and risks. This information can help address the concerns of industry and the public, and provides a scientific basis for measures to limit disease.
The Pneumoconiosis Field Research of the UK coal industry was, we believe, the biggest integrated programme of occupational epidemiology ever undertaken, with a team-working approach combining all the IOM's skills in the necessary scientific disciplines and in project leadership. These skills have since been applied to investigate health effects of other hazards, including organic and inorganic dusts, fibres, volcanic ash, fumes, chemicals, noise and unsafe working practices. A constant theme has been reliable exposure estimation.
Types of studies that we undertake include the following:
- longitudinal, cross-sectional and case-control epidemiological studies;
- review and meta-analysis of other epidemiological studies;
- Health Impact Assessment of environmental air pollution and other agents. (See IOMLIFET calculation tool)
Some recent studies have included:
| Study | Sponsor |
|---|---|
| Respiratory health studies on Montserrat and of Montserratians relocated to the UK | Dept. For International Development and Dept. of Health |
| Epidemiological study of the relations between exposure to sheep dip and risk of chronic neurological abnormalities | Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, Health & Safety Executive, Dept. of Health |
| Hypoglycaemic episodes in people with diabetes | Diabetic Association |
| Risks of disease in relation to exposures to airborne quartz | Health and Safety Executive |
| Health Effects of ceramic fibre production | European ceramic fibre industry |
| A critical review of multiple chemical sensitivity | Health and Safety Executive |
| Mortality in Titanium Dioxide production workers | TiO2 industry |
| Case control study of individuals with asthma and chronic bronchitis related to work | Health & Safety Executive |