How air pollution affects brain development in young children
Air Pollution Exposures in Early Life and Brain Development in Children
This study is looking at how air pollution affects the brain development of young children in sub-Saharan Africa, especially those from birth to age 11, to understand how it impacts their growth and learning during important early years.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Washington NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10846597 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the impact of air pollution on the brain development of children in sub-Saharan Africa, particularly focusing on those aged 0-11 years. By utilizing a unique cohort and advanced monitoring techniques, the study aims to measure exposure to harmful air pollutants during critical early life stages, including pregnancy and infancy. Researchers will track children's development in areas such as motor skills, cognition, and self-regulation up to the age of three, providing valuable insights into the long-term effects of air pollution on health.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 0-11 years living in urban areas of sub-Saharan Africa, particularly those exposed to high levels of air pollution.
Not a fit: Patients who do not live in areas with significant air pollution or who are outside the age range of 0-11 years may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and interventions to protect children's brain health from the harmful effects of air pollution.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research in high-income settings has shown significant links between air pollution and neurodevelopmental issues, suggesting that similar findings may be expected in this novel context.
Where this research is happening
Seattle, United States
- University of Washington — Seattle, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Benki-Nugent, Sarah F. — University of Washington
- Study coordinator: Benki-Nugent, Sarah F.
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 below.