Job-exposure matrix
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A job-exposure matrix (JEM) is a tool used to assess exposure to potential hazards to health in occupational epidemiological studies.
Essentially, a JEM comprises a list of levels of exposure to a variety of usually harmful (or potentially harmful) agents for each of a number of occupational titles. In large population-based epidemiological studies, JEMs may be used as a quick and systematic means of converting coded occupational data (job titles) into a matrix of possible exposures[1], obviating the need to assess each individual's exposure in detail.
Advantages of the JEM approach
Apart from the increased efficiency of assessing exposure in this way, using JEMs may also reduce differential information bias that might occur when evaluating exposure for individuals from medical records in which their jobs are apparent.[1]
Disadvantages of using a JEM
Typical problems associated with use of JEMs are as follows:
- Variability of exposure within occupational classes in different workplaces, countries, or throughout time is commonly not taken into account, which results in nondifferential misclassification of exposures[1]
References
- ^ a b c Kauppinen TP, Mutanen PO, Seitsamo JT. Magnitude of misclassification bias when using a job-exposure matrix. [Internet]. Scandinavian Journal of Work, Environment & Health 1992 Apr;18(2):105-112.[cited 2011 Dec 16] Available from: http://www.sjweh.fi/show_abstract.php?abstract_id=1604