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Area III. Topic E. Epidemiology
Introduction
Epidemiology has been defined as the study of the distribution and determinants of health related states or events in specified populations, and the application of this study, to the prevention and control of health problems (Last, 1988). Thus, epidemiologists are concerned not only with studying health, disease and death but also with devising means to prevent illness and improve health.
Occupational Epidemiology involves the application of epidemiologic methods to populations of workers. Occupational epidemiologic studies may involve looking at workers exposed to a variety of chemical, biological or physical (e.g. noise, heat, radiation) agents to determine if the exposures result in the risk of adverse health outcomes. Alternatively, epidemiologic studies may involve the evaluation of workers with a common adverse health outcome to determine if an agent or set of agents may explain their disease. (OSHA)
Links
The Comprehensive Epidemiologic Data Resource (CEDR). The Comprehensive Epidemiologic Data Resource (CEDR) is a Department of Energy (DOE) public-use repository of data from occupational and environmental health studies of workers at DOE facilities and nearby community residents.
Young Epidemiologists Scholarships Competition. Sponsored by the College Entrance Examination Board. Contains tutorials in Epidemiology!
Disclaimer: This material is for training purposes only. Its purpose is to inform employers of best practices in occupational safety and health and general OSHA compliance requirements. This material is not, in any way, a substitute for any provision of the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970 or any standards issued by OSHA.
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