Chronic Disease Epidemiology |
Our unit investigates the complex etiology underlying chronic diseases. Our research focuses on the effects of air pollution, tobacco smoke, lifestyle and genetic variation on the development and progression of respiratory and cardiovascular diseases as well as cancer. Large cohort studies, such as the internationally renowned Swiss SAPALDIA study (ongoing for 20 years), as well as a unique biobank form the backbone for our studies. We collaborate with other units at the Swiss TPH and colleagues from world-leading institutions elsewhere in Switzerland, Europe and the United States. The unit aims to increase understanding of the complex risk patterns of disorders that are currently common in industrialised and urban populations. In the future, this knowledge will be used for targeted primary prevention of these diseases all over the world.