Effects of household air pollution on children's brain development from pregnancy to age 8

Impact of household air pollution (HAP) in-utero through early childhood on neurocognitive development from infancy to 8 years (HAPCOG Study)

NIH-funded research University of Chicago · NIH-10808048

This study looks at how breathing in dirty air from cooking fuels affects the brain development of children in Sub-Saharan Africa, focusing on moms and their kids, to help understand how these pollutants might impact their health and growth.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Chicago NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Chicago, United States)
Project IDNIH-10808048 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how exposure to household air pollution (HAP) affects the neurocognitive development of children from in-utero through early childhood. It focuses on mothers and children in Sub-Saharan Africa who are exposed to toxic pollutants from burning biomass fuels or kerosene for household energy. The study will assess the impact of HAP on child development while considering factors such as maternal stress, nutrition, and home environment. By utilizing data from a previous randomized controlled trial, the research aims to provide insights into the long-term effects of air pollution on children's health.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are pregnant women and their children living in areas with high levels of household air pollution.

Not a fit: Patients who do not live in regions affected by household air pollution may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved health outcomes and developmental support for children exposed to household air pollution.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown significant health impacts from household air pollution, indicating that this study builds on established findings rather than exploring a completely novel approach.

Where this research is happening

Chicago, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.