8284813 Introducing the atlas of longitudinal datasets: a data discoverability tool for (occupational) health research

<h3></h3> Longitudinal studies are a powerful research tool that have the potential to answer pressing questions about human health and wellbeing. However, longitudinal data have been underused because they can be difficult to find, and their data difficult to access. Improving the discoverability of longitudinal data is an essential step towards increasing the outreach and impact of these valuable data resources. The Atlas of Longitudinal Datasets is an interactive online platform that aims to maximise the uptake of longitudinal data by improving the discoverability of over 2,000 longitudinal datasets from around the world, including many occupational cohorts and health surveillance studies. The Atlas shares metadata about each dataset, including information about their location, sample and unique features, as well as detailed information about data collection methods, mental health, neuroimaging, linkage, qualitative data, and data access policies. Users can explore datasets, filter their searches, compare features of datasets and save their favourite datasets to return to. Current expansion of the Atlas includes adding detail about occupational and environmental exposure data, including pollution, dust and radiation. The Atlas aims to provide a resource for users of longitudinal data planning new research projects, as well as data custodians in maximising the discoverability of their data. The Atlas can also facilitate the development of collaborations and be a resource for funders to identifying areas for enrichment. This presentation will introduce the Atlas, share insight into how it has been developed, and showcase its use as a free-to-access tool. Specifically, it will highlight the usefulness of the Atlas to occupational health researchers and demonstrate how it can be used to discover datasets covering populations of workers from around the world.