[Application of epidemiology to the protection of reproductive health]

The paper discusses the use of epidemiologic research for the prevention of occupational exposures focusing the hazards to the reproductive health of workers. For reproductive risks already documented in previous studies and in the available data, what is now needed is to identify better strategies to prevention rather than undertake further studies. Research is still needed however to identify risks previously not known and to investigate their mechanisms of action. This can be achieved by undertaking studies that measure with more accuracy the exposure of workers and examine the complex interaction of these exposures on the male and female endocrine system and on the fetus. One area of particular recent interest is that of the effects of the EDCs on human reproductive health, with results that confirm the interference of these chemicals on various reproductive outcomes in experimental animals and in humans. Other uses of epidemiologic research on human reproduction are related to establishing and updating the limits of environmental and occupational exposures and in providing reliable and unbiased information to workers and the public.