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Community & Population-Based Research Core (Type 2 Translational Research)

large group of people outdoors

The Epidemiology & Population-Based Research Core is comprised of the Marshfield Epidemiologic Study Area (MESA) and the Wisconsin Network for Health Research (WiNHR). This core can provide ICTR members access to:

  • Epidemiological databases
  • Population sampling expertise
  • Community research populations

Marshfield Epidemiologic Study Area (MESA)
MESA is a geographic region defined by 24 zip codes in northern and central Wisconsin where the great majority of residents choose to receive care at Marshfield Clinic, its regional centers, and affiliated hospitals. Marshfield Epidemiological Study Area map

The dynamic cohort includes approximately 85,000 current MESA residents and more than 140,000 people since it was established in 1991. When combined with Marshfield Clinic health data, MESA is a unique resource for population-based health research.

The MESA population consists of a highly cooperative, stable population that includes many long-term residents and multi-generation families. It is a homogeneous population defined as mainly white, non-Hispanic people who reside in typically rural areas, except for the approximately 19,000 who live in the city of Marshfield. With its high population and health event coverage, and ability to track individuals over time, MESA is a valuable tool for conducting research on a myriad of health-related questions.

The MESA cohort contributes to multi-site collaborations, including:

View MESA Publications

Wisconsin Network for Health Research (WiNHR)
The Wisconsin Network for Health Research (WiNHR),a component of the ICTR, is a collaborative effort involving the UW School of Medicine and Public Health, Marshfield Clinic, Aurora Health Care and Gundersen Clinic. WiNHR was established to promote greater inter-institutional cooperation in research and move research results to the bedside more efficiently and effectively. Marshfield Clinic’s WiNHR representatives include James Burmester, PhD, Steven Yale, MD, and Ingrid Glurich, PhD. Since the inception of the network in 2005, Marshfield Clinic investigators have led or been a participating site on eight research protocols.

University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health   Marshfield Clinic  
Aurora Health Care    Gundersen Lutheran Medical Foundation

Visit the WiNHR home page for additional information and a list of current research activities.