British Doctors Study

The British Doctors Study (bri-tish dok-ters stuhd-ee) is a landmark epidemiological research study that was conducted in the United Kingdom. The study was initiated by Sir Richard Doll and Sir Austin Bradford Hill in 1951 and continued until 2001. The primary aim of the study was to investigate the potential link between tobacco smoking and lung cancer.

Etymology

The term "British Doctors Study" is derived from the nationality of the participants (British) and the profession they belong to (Doctors). The word "Study" signifies the research aspect of the project.

Background

The British Doctors Study was one of the first and most significant studies to establish the link between smoking and various health issues, including lung cancer and heart disease. The study was conducted over a period of 50 years and involved approximately 40,000 British doctors.

Methodology

The methodology of the British Doctors Study involved sending questionnaires to every registered doctor in Britain. The doctors were asked about their smoking habits, and their health was then tracked over the subsequent years. The study was observational in nature, meaning that the researchers did not intervene or attempt to change the doctors' smoking habits.

Findings

The findings of the British Doctors Study were groundbreaking. The study found a strong correlation between smoking and lung cancer, with smokers being significantly more likely to develop the disease than non-smokers. The study also found a link between smoking and heart disease, as well as several other health conditions.

Impact

The impact of the British Doctors Study has been profound. The study's findings led to a significant shift in public opinion about smoking and its health risks. The study also influenced public health policy, leading to increased regulation of tobacco products and public health campaigns aimed at reducing smoking rates.

Related Terms

External links

Medical encyclopedia article on British Doctors Study
Wikipedia's article - British Doctors Study

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British Doctors Study