Guidelines for good epidemiology practices for occupational and environmental epidemiologic research
Article Abstract:
The Chemical Manufacturers Association (CMA) Epidemiology Task Group has produced a set of recommendations to be followed to provide some uniformity, responsibility, accountability and authority to occupational and environmental epidemiologic research. These recommendations, known as the Guidelines for Good Epidemiology Practices (GEPs), propose minimum practices and procedures to be included in occupational and environmental epidemiologic studies. One of the driving considerations in developing the guidelines was to provide uniform, standardized approaches to studies describing and projecting human responses to industrial chemicals and materials. Human studies are more important than animal studies, since most occupational and environmental health studies are observational, rather than experimental. These guidelines address those areas particularly under the control of the investigator, namely data quality, study design, and study conduct. The goals of the GEPs are stated to be: (1) to provide a framework for good epidemiologic research practices; (2) to encourage quality data collection and analysis; (3) to encourage continuous development and improvement in epidemiologic technology; (4) to provide a framework for evaluation of epidemiologic studies; (5) to improve the scientific acceptability of studies; (6) to improve the utility of epidemiologic studies in the formulation of public policy; (7) to improve the public's confidence in epidemiology as a science; and (8) to improve the conservation of technical resources by promoting careful study design and conduct. A detailed text of the GEPs is appended. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)
Publication Name: Journal of Occupational Medicine
Subject: Health care industry
ISSN: 0096-1736
Year: 1991
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Better quality studies through review of protocols
Article Abstract:
The importance of an adequate plan, or protocol, when conducting epidemiological research is essential to a successful effort. The protocol provides the means to communicate the intent of the study, the nature of the study, and the potential implications of the study. A properly prepared protocol protects the integrity of the research. Furthermore, it can demonstrate evidence of ethical intent, and that the results should be consistent with the objectives. More important than the protocol itself, however, is the review process prior to its finalization. Following recommended guidelines in the development of the protocol can reasonably assure the quality of the product. Three specific review dimensions can be identified: study value, methodology, and procedures. Who will benefit from the study and how the benefits will be manifested should be determined. The study should be unbiased in its design, analysis, and outcome determination. Questions to answer are whether the methods recommended are comparable to those of other similar studies and whether the results will stand up. The research team should be technical and scientifically competent. The following sequence of steps is recommended for agreeing to the content of a protocol: work proposal, choice of investigator, formation of management team, advice from relevant expert(s), draft protocol, series of meetings, final draft, peer and formal ethical review, and the agreed protocol. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)
Publication Name: Journal of Occupational Medicine
Subject: Health care industry
ISSN: 0096-1736
Year: 1991
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Enhancing the quality of epidemiologic studies
Article Abstract:
The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health is responsible, through its Industrywide Studies Branch, for industrial hygiene and epidemiologic research. The authority for this activity is mandated by the Occupational Health and Safety Act of 1970. For more than 20 years, studies on the effects of benzene, asbestos, radon, ethylene oxide, and other occupational and industrial hazards have been conducted with significant beneficial outcomes. Three additional guidelines could improve the quality of epidemiological studies: (1) to conduct open scientific review of research protocols and final reports; (2) to disseminate study results to all appropriate parties; and (3) to utilize expertise from other disciplines, and incorporate new scientific methods into the research. NIOSH staff have the final authority and responsibility for the study design, analysis and interpretation, but encourage other scientists, companies and pertinent union personnel to contribute to the design and data review of the studies. Results and data derived from the study may be distributed to the scientific community, nonscientific community, lay and trade journals, and the companies and personnel who participated. Newer and better techniques should be incorporated into studies as they become available. Industry data regarding exposures and outcomes should be improved, and made easier to obtain. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)
Publication Name: Journal of Occupational Medicine
Subject: Health care industry
ISSN: 0096-1736
Year: 1991
User Contributions:
Comment about this article or add new information about this topic:
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