Data analysis and interpretation

For a coordinated and harmonised approach to HBM in Europe, a common procedure for data management, quality control of the database, data analysis and data interpretation is essential. Therefore the necessary guidelines, formats and processes to upload the data in a database,  aggregate data, and analyse it statistically are currently being developed. Support for the use of a computer assisted personalized interview (CAPI) system is offered to the member states.  Uniform variable names and descriptors are defined and a code book is developed.  The data are loaded into a database which has a similar format in each of the participating countries. Programs are developed for quality control of the data. Support is given to the participating countries to describe and analyse questionnaire and  biomarker data at the country level. Furthermore, guidelines are provided for data interpretation in relation to health based guidance value,  in comparison to biomarker data from other study populations and in relation to exposure determinants.

The COPHES team in charge of data analysis and interpretation will also construct the European database for  analysis and interpretation of the  anonymised data provided by the participating member states.  Determinants of exposure will be analysed using multivariate statistics. Biomonitoring data will be associated  to aggregated environmental  data and country specifc  information according to a priori defined hypotheses.