NIH-funded research U01 cooperative agreement

Examining cancer risk and mortality in survivors of the World Trade Center disaster

Official title: Integrated analysis of cancer risk and mortality in WTC survivors

Funded at New York University School of Medicine · NIH-10994991 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at how the pollution from the World Trade Center disaster might affect cancer risk and survival for people in the local community, especially those who were most impacted, to better understand the long-term health effects of that event.

Quick facts

Grant typeU01 cooperative agreement
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionNew York University School of Medicine
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New York, United States)
Project startJuly 1, 2024
Project endJune 30, 2026
Funding year2024
Award (this year)$346,114
NIH project number1U01OH012778-01
Project IDNIH-10994991 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research include individuals who were exposed to the dust and fumes from the World Trade Center disaster, particularly those from diverse backgrounds.

Less likely to help

Patients who were not exposed to the World Trade Center disaster or who do not have a history of cancer may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research investigates the impact of environmental exposures from the World Trade Center disaster on cancer risk and mortality among local community members. It focuses on understanding how carcinogenic compounds released during the event may lead to somatic mutations and changes in DNA methylation associated with cancer development. The study aims to analyze cancer incidence and mortality rates, particularly among diverse populations affected by the disaster, to gain insights into the long-term health effects of such exposures.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding of cancer risks in WTC survivors, potentially informing better screening and treatment strategies.

How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown elevated cancer rates among first responders, indicating that this research builds on established findings but aims to address gaps in diversity and understanding of cancer risks.

Where this research is happening

  • New York University School of Medicine
    New York, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Shao, Yongzhao — New York University School of Medicine
  • Study coordinator: Shao, Yongzhao

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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.