How air pollution affects heart health in children and young adults

Air pollutant exposure and progression of subclinical atherosclerosis during the critical transition from childhood to adulthood

NIH-funded research University of Southern California · NIH-10975367

This study looks at how air pollution might affect heart health in kids as they grow up into young adults, by checking things like artery thickness and stiffness in those exposed to different pollutants, so we can better understand how the environment impacts their hearts over time.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Southern California NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Los Angeles, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-10975367 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the impact of air pollution on the early development of heart disease in children transitioning to adulthood. It focuses on measuring early indicators of cardiovascular issues, such as the thickness of carotid arteries and arterial stiffness, in young populations exposed to various air pollutants. By utilizing data from the Southern California Children's Health Study, the research aims to understand how these environmental factors influence heart health over time. Participants will undergo carotid artery ultrasounds to assess changes in their cardiovascular health as they grow.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include children and young adults who have been exposed to air pollution and are part of the Southern California Children's Health Study.

Not a fit: Patients who are not part of the targeted age group or who have no history of air pollution exposure may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and prevention strategies for cardiovascular disease in young people exposed to air pollution.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown a correlation between air pollution and cardiovascular disease in adults, but this study aims to explore this relationship in younger populations, making it a novel approach.

Where this research is happening

Los Angeles, 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.