Download - Introduction to Forensic Epidemiology
Introduction to Forensic Epidemiology
Goals
Describe forensic epidemiology and the groups that may be involved in a forensic epidemiology investigation.
Explain how forensic epidemiology is used in the courtroom and in the field.
Provide examples when forensic epidemiology might be used.
Definition of Epidemiology “The study of the distribution and
determinants of health related states or events in populations, and the application of this study to control health problems”
The basic science of public health
Goals of Epidemiology
Examples: Identify individuals at high risk for
disease Recognize and control epidemics Monitor rates of disease and
exposures in populations
Types of Epidemiology
Examples: Occupational Infectious Disease Cardiovascular Cancer Nutrition Environmental Injury
Epidemiologic Studies of Naturally Occurring
Phenomena
Historical examples dating to 1747 Modern examples:
Fluoride use and dental caries Cigarette use and lung cancer Tampon use and Toxic Shock
Syndrome HPV exposure and cervical cancer
Epidemiology in Health-Related Crime Investigations
Examples: Deliberate poisoning Bioterrorism
Need unlikely partners to work together
Epidemiology can link disciplines Goal is to protect health of public
Forensic Epidemiology
Application of public health methods in a potential criminal investigation Litigation of health-related incidents
Examples: silicone breast implants, E. coli infections, toxic shock syndrome, tobacco use
Field-based investigations with law enforcement
Example: intentional anthrax release in 2001
Epidemiology in the Courtroom
Investigative experts Interview case-patients
Consulting experts Understand scientific principles Understand statistical principles
Testimony experts Present data
Differences between Science and Law
Science Ever-changing, open to peer review Disease in populations Evidence for association only
Law Final Disease in individual Requires causal link
Field-Based Forensic Epidemiology
During the investigation
Disciplines involved: Local and state health
departments Police and firefighters State bureaus of
investigation Emergency
management services Hospitals and health
clinics State laboratories Pharmacists
Federal Bureau of Investigation National Guard and other
military units Centers for Disease Control
and Prevention Federal Emergency
Management Administration United States Department of
Agriculture Department of Homeland
Security Attorney General’s Office
Field-Based Forensic Epidemiology-Bioterrorism
Two key groups: Public health and law enforcement Common goals:
Protect the public Prevent/Stop the spread of disease Identify the responsible individual/party Safeguard those involved in investigation
Field-Based Forensic Epidemiology-Bioterrorism Law enforcement contributions:
Public health criminology expertise Forensic laboratory collaboration Law enforcement connections
Public health contributions: Medical expertise Laboratory expertise Public health connections
Examples of Confirmed Health-Related Criminal
Cases Rabbit hemorrhagic disease virus; 1997 Shigella dysenteriae type 2; 1996 Bacillus anthracis, botulinum toxin,
sarin; 1990-1995 Salmonella typhimurium; 1984 Ricin; 1978 Curacit; 1977-1980 Ascaris suum; 1970
Conclusion
Forensic epidemiology has been used for many years; 2001 terrorist events have increased attention on field
Public health and law enforcement can learn from each other
Public health and law enforcement can successfully work together