MD and PhD Theses

Ongoing

• The role of primary care physicians in discussing advance directive with their patients and their interest in interprofessional collaboration

  Anna Stoffel

• A systematic review and meta-analysis on the occupational risk factors in farmers and other outdoor workers for basal cell carcinoma, cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma, and malignant melanoma

  The prevalence of skin cancer is rising, particularly in outdoor workers like farmers, who are frequently exposed to ultraviolet radiation (UVR). Non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC), including basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), has the highest incidence among all cancers, with SCC being more dangerous. Melanoma, although rarer, has a higher mortality rate. Farmers and other outdoor workers face increased skin cancer risks due to UVR exposure, machinery injuries, chemicals, and other hazards. 

  The objective of the study is to assess how occupational factors in farmers and outdoor workers affect their risk of developing various skin cancers. To answer these questions, a systematic review of the literature and, if possible, a meta-analysis will be conducted.

  Michael Aeby

• A pilot study in the Swiss Alps: Impact of alpine dairy products on blood lipid levels

  Lifestyle changes such as diet are important strategies in the prevention of cardiovascular diseases. Dyslipidemia, among others, has been shown to be a major cardiovascular risk factor. Clinical observations by a few general practitioners in the Swiss Alps have shown that consumption of dairy products from cows grazing at high altitudes may have a beneficial effect on blood lipid parameters. However, the clinical data available is limited. The aim of this randomized controlled trial was to investigate the impact of alpine dairy products intake on blood lipid levels among hypercholesterolemic patients.

  Sunita Abplanalp