Contributions and limitations of epidemiological knowledge in occupational health

Although epidemiological principles and methods in occupational medicine have been used for many years, it is only recently that the term "occupational epidemiology" has begun to appear in the field of occupational health. In fact, this is only the 3rd meeting of "occupational epidemiology" of a scientific subcommittee of PCIAOH. Thus, the importance of epidemiology in occupational health has been recognized among not only scientists but other members of the field and by the general public. This is indeed a desirable trend and will promote the practice of occupational health. However, epidemiology is not "almighty", not an absolute science. The misuse of epidemiological results can provide wrong information and may even cause grave confusion and misunderstanding in the protection of the health of workers and relevant legislative action. The use of epidemiology can be broadly categorized as follows: Search for a cause of occupational disease--Cause and-effect relationship of an event among workers: Occupational cancer and other diseases; Industrial injuries; Absenteeism; Detection of subclinical and psychological conditions due to job; and Occupational fatigue. Dose-effect, dose-response relationship of toxic chemicals. Practical application of epidemiological results: Establishment of criteria for the maintenance of health; Industrial hygiene; and Policy making for prevention and compensation--regulation and legislation. There are many problems, issues and conflicts in the uses of occupational epidemiology. These will be discussed in the text.