Analysis of genetic determinants of susceptibility to some environmentally important carcinogens and other chemicals. The genetic polymorphism of key enzymes for activation or detoxication of xenobiotics is a determining factor for susceptibility for environmental agents. To assess the potential risk to individuals or the population, more extensive knowledge is needed about the genetic background and the interaction between genes and environment. Specific research needs apart from the topics identified by ENHE General considerations 1. This is of general scientific interest, particularly in view of the limited resolution power of epidemiological studies and difficulties in obtaining sufficient discrimination in exposure profiles.
Environmental epidemiology is one of the areas to be strengthened.
For example, epidemiology of water-related diseases is an area which is almost completely neglected. Analysis of 'hot spots' - clusters of diseases or highly polluted areas, is required. Geographic information systems could be useful tool for that purpose. Exposure assessment as important part of risk assessment. There are few, and in some countries hardly any data on exposure of humans to various environmental agents.