Research Theme

Population Health and Epidemiology

Population health research identifies how commonly specific health problems and diseases occur in the population and which environmental and genetic factors may increase the risk of developing these conditions.

Epidemiological studies also evaluate possible interventions and improvement of health services so that the impact of the diseases on the community and individuals is reduced. Researchers at the Menzies Research Institute ultimately aim to apply our knowledge of causative factors to research into prevention and treatment.

Some examples of research projects within the Population Health and Epidemiology research theme at the Menzies Research Institute:

Longitudinal Cohort Study of Multiple Sclerosis in Southern Tasmania

The cohort has had serial clinical reviews at six-monthly intervals. The final cycle of data collection was completed in February 2005. Researchers are focussing on environmental determinants of disease progression, for the purpose of developing new interventions to slow MS progression. Further funding was obtained to allow genetic assessment of disease progression, with a special emphasis on immunogenetics. Magnetic resonance imaging scans have been assessed in collaboration with St Vincent’s Hospital, Melbourne.

The Tasmanian Environmental Control Study of MS

This case control study has been very informative to date and this was recognised by NHMRC in a report on the most productive NHMRC grants funded from 1999-2003. The study has particularly provided information on the possible role of early life factors such as low sun exposure, low contact with infants and infection in determining the risk of Multiple Sclerosis. The study team is working with the Genetics group to explore gene-environment interactions in MS.

For more information, contact:

Associate Professor Anne-Louise Ponsonby

Senior Member

Telephone: (03) 6226 7700