How wildfires and stress during pregnancy affect birth outcomes in Alaskan women
Official title: Convergence of multiple exposures during pregnancy: Effect of wildfires and maternal stressors on birth outcomes among Alaskan women
Funded at University of Alaska Anchorage · NIH-10984978 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how exposure to wildfire smoke and other stressors might affect the chances of preterm birth in pregnant women in Alaska, especially among American Indian and Alaska Native communities, to help improve healthcare for those who need it most.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Alaska Anchorage NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Anchorage, United States) |
| Project start | January 19, 2022 |
| Project end | November 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $142,875 |
| NIH project number | 5K01MD016923-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-10984978 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include pregnant women in Alaska, especially those from American Indian and Alaska Native communities.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not pregnant or those living outside of Alaska may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the impact of wildfire smoke exposure and other stressors on preterm birth rates among pregnant women in Alaska, particularly focusing on American Indian and Alaska Native populations. The study will analyze historical birth records and environmental data to understand how these factors converge and influence birth outcomes. By examining socio-demographic differences, the research aims to identify vulnerable groups and improve maternal health strategies. The findings could lead to better healthcare access and interventions for at-risk populations.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and prevention of preterm births among Alaskan women, ultimately enhancing maternal and infant health outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that environmental factors like air quality can significantly impact pregnancy outcomes, suggesting that this study's approach is grounded in established findings.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Alaska Anchorage
Anchorage, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hahn, Micah — University of Alaska Anchorage
- Study coordinator: Hahn, Micah
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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.