Tricky trends and toxicities: diverse applied epidemiology in NSW

Abstract

This thesis recounts the projects and experiences undertaken during my Master of Philosophy (Applied Epidemiology) program, which ran from February 2024 to October 2025. I was based in the Centre for Epidemiology and Evidence at the NSW Ministry of Health, working with two other centres, the Environmental Health Branch and the Centre for Alcohol and other Drugs, for two projects. Attaining the major competencies, I conducted an epidemiological study and data analysis of pneumonia emergency department presentations in NSW from 2015-2024, investigated per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances in drinking water and performed an evaluation of the NSW Rapid Drug Surveillance and Early Warning System. Centred around these projects, minor competencies were reflected in a manuscript for publication, two oral conference presentations, a targeted literature review and a summary for a non-scientific audience. Teaching field epidemiology involved conveying concepts to, and facilitating learning activities with, peers and other health professionals. Additional experiences including performing routine business, human research ethics committee membership and participation in a range of learning activities further enhanced epidemiological skills development. Combined, these projects and experiences demonstrate my achievement of the required competencies for the award of this degree. Show more