Forensic epidemiology in the romanian legal system

Abstract

This chapter reviews the historical development of epidemiology in Romania, which closely parallels the development of medicine. The chapter then discusses the use of scientific tools within the Romanian legal system. The use of epidemiologic evidence is then examined in the context of an ongoing and yet unresolved case relating to occupational lead exposure and injuries alleged to have resulted from that exposure and the possible civil and criminal consequences of a legally proven association between the lead exposure and the injuries. It is concluded that although Romanian legislation provides an appropriate framework for the use of epidemiologic data in civil and criminal trials, its use requires training of attorneys and judges in epidemiologic concepts and of epidemiologists in the nature of legal proceedings.