Population Biobank Studies: A Practical Guide

This book provides an overview of the key epidemiological principles, scientific approaches, and quality assurance frameworks required to design and conduct biobank studies in various settings. It addresses the design features and practical procedures needed to launch and manage biobank studies, including consent and regulatory approval, data and biological sample management, follow-up and verification of disease outcomes, and development of IT systems for data collection, quality assurance, and study management. The authors are experienced epidemiologists, clinicians, software engineers, and laboratory and data scientists with extensive experience in conducting large biobank studies. The book aims to stimulate the development of further population-based and hospital-based biobank studies in diverse populations.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 202 pages
Publication date: 11 December 2021
Publisher: Springer Verlag, Singapore

This comprehensive book delves into the intricate realm of epidemiological principles, scientific approaches, and quality assurance frameworks essential for designing and conducting biobank studies across diverse settings. By utilizing real-world examples from contemporary biobanks, the authors shed light on the critical design features and practical procedures required to launch and manage these groundbreaking endeavors. From consent and regulatory approval to the organization of fieldwork, data management, follow-up, and disease outcome verification, the book offers a comprehensive guide to ensuring the success of biobank studies. Moreover, it explores the development of IT systems for data collection, quality assurance, and study management, highlighting the importance of robust infrastructure in advancing precision medicine.

The emergence of large biobank studies in recent years has been a game-changer in the field of precision medicine. These studies, characterized by their vast size and complexity, involve extensive follow-up periods spanning several decades. However, the challenges associated with these studies are immense, ranging from rapid recruitment to obtaining high-quality data, minimizing loss to follow-up, accurately classifying disease outcomes, and optimizing the utilization of collected biological samples. In this context, the key to success lies not in envisioning the perfect study but in designing the most appropriate, reliable, sustainable, and future-proof study within the practical constraints of available resources, time, and capacity.

The authors of this book are a diverse group of experts with extensive experience in conducting large biobank studies. Their expertise spans epidemiology, clinical practice, software engineering, and laboratory and data science, ensuring a comprehensive and multidisciplinary perspective. The eight chapters of the book can be read independently or as a cohesive whole, providing readers with a wealth of essential information on how to design, implement, and manage biobank studies. The state-of-the-art, innovative, and scalable approaches and methodologies presented herein are intended to ignite the development of a new generation of biobank studies that will propel precision medicine to new heights.

In conclusion, this book serves as a valuable resource for researchers, healthcare professionals, policymakers, and anyone interested in advancing the field of biobank research. By providing a comprehensive and practical guide to designing, implementing, and managing biobank studies, it empowers individuals and organizations to contribute to the development of precision medicine and ultimately improve patient outcomes.

Weight: 343g
Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9789811576683
Edition number: 1st ed. 2020