Quality assurance and quality control in toxicology: how might these concepts apply to epidemiology?

Quality assurance and its distinction from quality control are defined in operational terms. The historical development of standards for scientific research supporting commercialization of materials leading to the current Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) standards is briefly outlined. The application of GLPs to toxicology studies and experience in the use of these standards over a broad range of activities is also presented. This background information provides a common starting point for consideration of the development and application of similar standards for epidemiological studies.