Population-based health research is conducted in the Unit for Population-Based Health Research in Helsinki and in the Laboratory for Population Research in Turku. The principal population studies include the Major population studies, Major population studies, Major population studiesand Health 2000 Survey. The methods used in these studies include health examinations, surveys and interviews. The development of the examinee s’ health has been followed up with various registers. We analyse a variety of biochemical and immunological factors from serum samples to determine their impact on disease risk. We also study functional limitations and work disability as well as the need for health care and help. One of our focus areas is to improve methods for population health surveys. In the Laboratory of Population Research in particular, we also conduct observational studies on a clinical scale and experimental research, with which we can assess the efficacy of changes in health habits and of treatments and rehabilitation. Our goal is to produce information to promote the population’s health and functional capacity, as well as to support health policy, the service system and the implementation of social security.
Common chronic diseases, particularly diseases of the circulatory organs, risk and protective factors, mortality, work ability and functional capacity and prognosis
This subproject focuses on the detection of factors related to the risk of coronary artery disease, cerebrovascular disease and high blood pressure. It also aims at revealing factors related to the risk of mortality and disability, assessing the magnitude of the impact of risk factors and the effect of changes in the prevalence of diseases of the circulatory organs on functional capacity.
Diseases of the locomotor organs, work ability and functional capacity, causes and prognosis
The topic of this study is the causes of rheumatoid arthritis and the importance of its immunological markers. We will also study the evaluation of the functioning of locomotors organs, the risk factors for back disorders, injuries of the locomotor organs, arthroseis of the knee and the hip, osteoporotic fractures and some demographical variations. Ongoing research also includes an experimental study on the efficacy of the surgical treatment of spinal stenosis.
Causes, risk, and, -protective factors, and early detection of cancers
Using population survey data and follow-up by registers we study factors that increase the risk of cancer and protect against it.
Other diseases, work ability and functional capacity, causes and prognosis
The topics of several other studies include the prevalence, causes and prognosis of diabetes. The prevalence, course, severity and causes of asthma. Mental disorders and certain other research topics, such as Parkinson’s disease.
Living conditions and health, and health disparities between socio-economic and other population groups
This study assesses the association between living conditions and the prevalence and incidence of diseases and functional limitations. We also analyse the health disparities between population groups and study other potentially health-promoting factors.
Health of children and young adults
Young adults’ health, living habits and their determinants are studied by means of the data from the Health 2000 survey and other studies. Together with the Department of Epidemiology and Health Promotion, we work to improve the monitoring of childrens’ and young adults’ health.
Work ability
This study, conducted in cooperation with the Finnish Institute of Occupational Health, focuses on work ability, its determinants and its development over time.
Health and functional capacity of aging and elderly people
This study focuses on health and functional capacity and their impairments in aging and elderly people. Causes and the need for help are also studied. The results will be used to develop measures promoting the functional capacity of elderly people.
Nutrition and common chronic conditions
This study, based on the follow-up of population surveys, assesses the importance of nutrition in the etiology and prevention of chronic diseases. Subprojects deal with diseases of the blood circulation organs, cancer, rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, asthma, cataract and neurological disorders. The current dietary habits and nutrition intake of the population are studied using the Health 2000 nutrition survey.
Methods of population research
We have launched systematic work to develop and maintain population survey methods, in cooperation especially with the Unit for Population-Based Health Research in Turku. The main emphasis is on the measurement of functional capacity and the development of health examination methods for surveys.