Step 4. Presenting the Results of a Health Outcome Data Evaluation

• Results

In a population, a certain number of cases of a disease is expected to be seen. For instance, statistics show that one in every three persons will develop some type of cancer during a lifetime. The number of cases of a disease that would be expected in a population that is being investigated is based on the number of cases seen in the comparison population. Generally, the results of the evaluation will be one of three findings.

1. If it is found that the disease is not occurring more often than in the comparison population, no further health study is warranted at this time.
2. If it is found that the disease is occurring more often than in the comparison population, but no one has been exposed to site chemicals, no further health study is warranted. Any known risk factors for the disease will likely be discussed with community members.
3. If the health outcome data indicate that the disease is occurring more in the community than in the comparison population, and people are being exposed to site chemicals at levels high enough and periods of time long enough to have the potential to cause harmful health effects, further health investigation follow-up actions should be considered.

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