Easing some burden for future Burden of Disease studies: lessons learnt from the Global Burden of Disease 2010 Study—the Musculoskeletal Expert Group's point of view

Abstract

BackgroundIn the original Global Burden of Disease (GBD) Study 1990, there was minimal involvement of clinical experts. By contrast, it was a key focus for GBD Study 2010 to explicitly engage a large and diverse group of experts. From the outset, the extent of the work involved from both the expert groups and the core team was a big unknown. Our aim is to reflect on the experiences of the Musculoskeletal Disorders and Risk Factors Expert Group (MSK EG), led by Professor Lyn March at University of Sydney, and to make constructive suggestions to the Core Team for future studies. MethodsSynthesis of issues documented and discussed by MSK EG through the course of GBD 2010. FindingsEG advice was critical for the accurate collection and interpretation of data. There were active problems throughout the process, notably in the following areas: (1) significant heterogeneity in the quality of epidemiological data available to be included in the systematic reviews; (2) timely interaction and due consultation by the Core Team with EGs relating to (a) ongoing changes to key aspects of the methodology and modelling and (b) finalisation and interpretation of results; and (3) project support for the EGs. InterpretationOur main suggestions are (1) to expand data collection, improve data quality, and strengthen methodology by (a) publication of guidelines for population-based studies to provide information in a more standardised format, and (b) forward engagement with end users of GBD and data collection agencies at a national level by the Core Team to facilitate the activities linked to gathering and collating the GBD data; (2) for EGs to continue to play an integral part of any future studies, and for the communication between the Core Team and EGs over data matters, methodology, and interpretation of results to be improved; and (3) to put in place, by the Core Team, a funding mechanism to provide adequate support to EGs throughout the course of the study. FundingAustralian Commonwealth Government, the Institute of Bone and Joint Research (IBJR) at the University of Sydney, and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.