The Tecumseh study.

The Tecumseh Community Health Study has been described in terms of its history, aims, design, conduct and current results, work in progress and future plans. This prospective epidemiological investigation of health and disease, especially cardiovascular disease and related disorders, in a total, natural community has its emphasis on the early detection of disease precursors in susceptible individuals, families, and other groups; the outlook is on prevention. An extensive and intensive study of this kind has been shown to be both feasible and productive. It represents what Dr. Thomas Francis, Jr., has called “clinical investigation on a community level,” including data on man and his environment. The key contribution of Dr. Francis in the establishment and conduct of the study is recalled and remembered with deep appreciation and respect.