Systemic sclerosis and occupational silica or solvent exposure: investigating epidemiology, gene-environment interactions and objective markers of exposure to improve occupational epidemiology, risk assessment and prevention KU Leuven
ystemic sclerosis can develop in genetically predisposed individuals upon exposure to environmental triggers. We will investigate the association between occupational exposure to silica or solvents and systemic sclerosis. We will determine genetic backgrounds to evaluate the relation between exposure, genetics and disease characteristics. We will evaluate objective markers of exposure. This would allow for true preventive strategies and lead ...