How air pollution affects mental health in adolescents

Longitudinal Impact of Air Pollution on Mental Health and Neuroimaging Outcomes during Adolescence in the Cincinnati Combined Childhood Cohorts (C4)

NIH-funded research Cincinnati Childrens Hosp Med Ctr · NIH-10993140

This study is looking at how air pollution affects the mental health of teenagers aged 12 to 20, especially in relation to feelings of depression and anxiety, and it will use brain scans to see how pollution might change the way their brains work.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionCincinnati Childrens Hosp Med Ctr NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Cincinnati, United States)
Project IDNIH-10993140 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the impact of air pollution on mental health outcomes, specifically focusing on adolescents aged 12 to 20. It aims to understand how exposure to pollutants like fine particulate matter and traffic-related air pollution may contribute to conditions such as depression and anxiety. The study will utilize neuroimaging techniques to assess changes in brain structure and function associated with these mental health issues. By identifying these links, the research seeks to inform prevention strategies and interventions for at-risk youth.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adolescents aged 12 to 20 who may be experiencing mental health challenges or are at risk for developing such conditions.

Not a fit: Patients outside the age range of 12 to 20 or those without any mental health concerns may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved mental health outcomes for adolescents by highlighting the importance of environmental factors in mental health.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown associations between air pollution and mental health, but this research aims to provide a more comprehensive understanding of these effects during adolescence, making it a novel approach.

Where this research is happening

Cincinnati, 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.