Toxicologists in public health – Following the path of Louis Roche (based on the Louis Roche lecture “An accidental toxicologist in public health”, Bordeaux, 2010)

Abstract

Background. The global burden of clinical toxicology suggests a natural partnership with public health. This article reflects the content of a Louis Roche lecture given in 2010.

Historical context. Our practice and research in clinical toxicology has evolved from clinical cases to toxico-epidemiology to public health. This evolution in practice was initially unplanned but gained momentum and impact as we placed it more formally in a public health framework. This perspective is implicit in Louis Roche's call to “examine all aspects of the poisoning problem” and still provides a valuable starting point for any clinical toxicologist.

Discussion. Clinical toxicology has always had a patient centered focus but its greatest successes have been related to public health interventions. Our early failures and later success in pubic health toxicology correlated with our understanding of the importance of partnerships outside our field. The most rapid dissemination and implementation of information derived from research occur through apriori partnerships with other agencies and international partners.

Conclusion. Addressing both local and global need has a number of bilateral synergies. Repositioning clinical toxicology into a public health framework increases access to strategic partnerships, research funds, and policy implementation while still addressing questions that are important to clinical practice.

Keywords:

• Public health
• Epidemiology
• Pesticides