How alcohol use affects COVID-19 in adolescents
Official title: Understanding how alcohol use affects adolescent COVID-19 acquisition and disease course overtime
Funded at Center for Innovative Public Health Research · NIH-10689854 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how drinking alcohol might affect COVID-19 infection rates in teens aged 14-17, especially focusing on how it could weaken their immune systems and change their social behaviors, while also exploring how the pandemic has changed drinking habits among young people, particularly those from marginalized communities, to help improve support and treatment for them.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Center for Innovative Public Health Research NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Clemente, United States) |
| Project start | September 21, 2021 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $331,637 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AA029923-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10689854 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adolescents aged 14-17 who consume alcohol and may be at risk for COVID-19.
✕Less likely to help
Patients outside the age range of 14-17 or those who do not consume alcohol may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the relationship between alcohol consumption and COVID-19 infection rates among adolescents aged 14-17. It aims to understand how alcohol use may weaken the immune system and influence social behaviors that increase the risk of virus transmission. The study also explores how the COVID-19 pandemic has altered alcohol consumption patterns in youth, particularly among marginalized groups. By examining these factors, the research seeks to inform treatment and support strategies for affected adolescents.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved health interventions and support systems for adolescents at risk of COVID-19 due to alcohol use.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific intersection of alcohol use and COVID-19 in adolescents is relatively novel, previous research has shown that alcohol consumption can negatively impact immune response and health outcomes.
Where this research is happening
-
Center for Innovative Public Health Research
San Clemente, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ybarra, Michele L. — Center for Innovative Public Health Research
- Study coordinator: Ybarra, Michele L.
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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.