New directory of low- and middle-income population studies

A new online directory of low and middle income (LMIC) population studies aims to boost international and interdisciplinary research collaboration.

Large-scale studies following people over time are a valuable way of understanding the role of the biological, environmental and lifestyle factors that shape human health.

The Low and Middle Income Longitudinal Population Study (LMIC LPS) Directoryopens in new window has been developed by the Institute for Fiscal Studies on behalf of the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC), the MRC and the Wellcome Trust. 

The directory aims to enhance opportunities for collaboration across the globe and complements the existing UK Cohort Directory.

It is the beginning of an already large collection of LMIC population studies which will be expanded upon as more studies are added. The collection will serve as a valuable resource for researchers interested in understanding the factors affecting socio-economic and health status, and for funders. 

All of the studies included are longitudinal population studies, are carried out in LMICs and use a sample size of more than 500 households or 1,500 individuals at baseline.

The information included in the directory has been collated from an extensive online search but is not a comprehensive overview of all LMIC population studies. It will be expanded over time to include other existing studies, and new studies as they are developed. 

The tool is searchable by geographic location and topic, and gives an initial summary of each study. It includes a link to individual study websites, pointing to further information and relevant contact details. This information will be helpful for international and interdisciplinary research collaboration. 

Each individual study profile indicates whether the study information has been verified by a core study-team member. The team are actively seeking to verify all entries over time and invite Principal Investigators to update details of included studies, or submit new studies for inclusion.