ODIN

Tool Interpretation Disclaimer

How should we intuitively interpret the use of this tool and the information provided?

Most of the information presented regarding occupational exposures is based on established Job-Exposure Matrices (JEMs), which are widely used in occupational epidemiology (Peters et al., 2010). Narrative descriptions of occupational histories are translated into occupational codes—typically based on the International Standard Classification of Occupations (ISCO)—and then matched with the appropriate JEMs. These matrices link job titles to workplace hazards and provide a systematic method for assessing exposure based on expert judgment, measurement data, or both.

The following JEMs were employed in this tool:

To complement these JEMs, additional literature sources were consulted, including:

Important Notes

It is important to interpret the exposure-disease information with caution. This tool provides a general, initial overview of risk factors that commonly or more frequently occur in specific occupations. It is meant to serve as a starting point in evaluating whether a disease may be related to one or more occupational exposures.

However, the tool does not capture all possible exposures, and some relevant data may be missing. In some cases, an agent listed in the app might contribute to additional diseases not explicitly reported. Limitations in feasibility, data availability, or matrix precision may lead to omissions or inaccuracies in specific cases.

Despite these limitations, the tool offers substantial guidance and background information that can support healthcare professionals, occupational physicians, and workers in identifying potential links between occupational exposures and health effects. That said, any suspected link must be confirmed through a detailed investigation of the individual’s specific exposure history.

The tool does not imply causality and is not a substitute for a comprehensive occupational health assessment. However, by highlighting key occupational risks, it can serve as a supportive aid, especially when rapid orientation is needed or when initial details may have been missed during case evaluation.

References