Effects of brevetoxins from algal blooms on children's health
Official title: Brevetoxins and Emergency Encounters among Children (BEECH)
Funded at University of South Florida · NIH-10866786 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how harmful toxins from algae blooms might affect the health of kids living near the coast, helping us understand their specific risks and how to keep them safe.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R03 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of South Florida NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Tampa, United States) |
| Project start | July 9, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $75,000 |
| NIH project number | 1R03ES036276-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10866786 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 0-11 years living in coastal regions affected by algal blooms.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not live in coastal areas or are older than 11 years may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how exposure to brevetoxins, which are released during harmful algal blooms, affects the health of children. The study focuses on children living in coastal areas where these blooms occur, examining potential health risks from inhalation and ingestion of contaminated water and seafood. By collecting epidemiological data specific to children, the research aims to understand the unique vulnerabilities of this population compared to adults. The findings will help inform public health strategies and risk communication tailored for children.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved health guidelines and protective measures for children exposed to harmful algal blooms.
How similar studies have gone: While there have been studies on adult exposure to brevetoxins, this research is novel as it specifically addresses the effects on children, a largely unstudied population.
Where this research is happening
-
University of South Florida
Tampa, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bulka, Catherine — University of South Florida
- Study coordinator: Bulka, Catherine
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.