HEI initiates new Diesel Epidemiology Project

28 May 1998

Cambridge, MA—The Health Effects Institute (HEI) has initiated a Diesel Epidemiology Project to address several uncertain health issues related to diesel emissions. The expanding worldwide use of diesel vehicles and the uncertain effect of their emissions on human health has focused attention on risk assessments of diesel engine exhaust. At the present time, there is uncertainty about using existing toxicologic or epidemiologic data for quantitative cancer risk assessments of diesel emissions. Moreover, emissions have changed substantially over the last decade because of new fuels, engine designs, and emissions control technology. The Diesel Epidemiology Project should generate new data to better inform regulators and policymakers as to the risks of exposure to emissions from today's diesel engines, especially in ambient settings.

As part of the Diesel Epidemiology Project, HEI plans to support epidemiologic studies of the health effects of diesel emissions beginning in 2000. HEI is issuing a Request for Applications (RFA 98-3) for feasibility studies relevant to that research. Applications for RFA 98-3 are due by July 30.

For more information see http://www.healtheffects.org/rfa983.htm

Questions regarding RFA 98-3 can be directed to:

Dr. Kathleen M. Nauss
Health Effects Institute
955 Massachusetts Avenue
Cambridge, MA 02139
Tel: 617-876-6700
e-mail: knauss@healtheffects.org

Source: Health Effect Institute