Bridging the epidemiology risk assessment gap: An NO2 case study of the Matrix

Abstract

ABSTRACT: A Matrix has recently been presented as a tool to assist in the translation of epidemiology literature for the needs of risk assessment. The Matrix is an approach to bridge the epidemiology-risk assessment gap and includes nine risk assessor “asks” of epidemiology studies. The Matrix is designed to facilitate awareness about how choices regarding a study's design, analyses and reporting can enhance the use of epidemiology data for risk assessment, and ultimately public health decision-making. In this paper, a case study of the Matrix is presented to (i) demonstrate how a selected body of epidemiology literature can be described in a risk assessment context using the elements of the Matrix, and (ii) assess the clarity and utility of the Matrix. This was conducted by reviewing 14 epidemiologic studies used in the US National Ambient Air Quality Standards Integrated Science Assessment for Oxides of Nitrogen for evaluating the nine elements outlined in the Matrix. The Matrix performed well in characterizing the needs of risk assessors in the areas of hazard identification, exposure assessment, and dose-response assessment. The case study revealed areas in which more precise word choices within the Matrix may improve the characterization of translational needs in epidemiology literature; recommendations for modifications to the Matrix are made. The case study findings indicate that there are opportunities for risk assessors and epidemiologists to collaborate to facilitate the use of epidemiology research for public health decision-making.