How air pollution and temperature affect 911 calls across the U.S.
Short-term environmental exposures and emergency medical service activation in the U.S
This project looks at how changes in air pollution and temperature might lead to more 911 calls across the United States.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Arizona NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Tucson, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11181277 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This project aims to understand if short-term changes in air pollution and temperature are linked to an increase in emergency medical service (EMS) calls. Researchers will use a national database of 911 calls, called NEMSIS, which includes details about patient demographics, location, and time of EMS activations. By linking this call data with environmental information like fine particulate matter, nitrogen dioxide, ozone, and temperature, we can see how these factors influence the need for emergency help. This detailed approach will help us understand these connections across different populations and regions in the U.S.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This project uses existing, de-identified 911 call data, so individual patients are not directly recruited for participation.
Not a fit: Patients seeking direct medical intervention or personalized health advice will not receive benefit from this specific data analysis project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could help public health officials better prepare emergency services for times when environmental conditions might lead to more 911 calls.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have looked at environmental effects on health, but this project uses a unique national database to provide a more detailed, U.S.-wide understanding of the link to EMS calls.
Where this research is happening
Tucson, United States
- University of Arizona — Tucson, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lim, Chris Chaeha — University of Arizona
- Study coordinator: Lim, Chris Chaeha
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.