Improving indigenous health through food and water management

"ahbahjipdooneh woolibahmowsoowahkn": reclaiming indigenous health through water and food sovereignty

['FUNDING_R21'] · UNIVERSITY OF MASSACHUSETTS LOWELL · NIH-10935942

This study is working with Maine tribes to help young people learn how to check for harmful substances in their water and food, so they can protect their health and culture while finding better ways to manage any risks from environmental pollution.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R21']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF MASSACHUSETTS LOWELL (nih funded)
Locations1 site (LOWELL, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10935942 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research engages Maine tribes in a community-based participatory approach to address environmental contamination risks affecting their water and food sources. It focuses on empowering tribal youth with tools for monitoring contaminants and documenting traditional ecological knowledge related to food and water use. By integrating this knowledge into health risk assessments, the project aims to develop culturally appropriate strategies for managing health risks associated with environmental exposure. The collaboration with local health organizations and Indigenous Knowledge Keepers ensures that the research is relevant and beneficial to the communities involved.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are members of Maine tribes concerned about the health of their water and food sources.

Not a fit: Patients who do not belong to the Maine tribes or are not affected by environmental contamination may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance the health and well-being of indigenous communities by improving food and water safety.

How similar studies have performed: Similar community-based participatory research approaches have shown success in empowering communities and improving health outcomes, making this a promising initiative.

Where this research is happening

LOWELL, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.