Investigating chronic kidney disease in agricultural communities in Central America
CKDu in Salvadoran and Nicaraguan Agricultural Communities
This study is looking into why younger men in farming communities in El Salvador and Nicaragua are getting chronic kidney disease, even though it’s not caused by common issues like diabetes or high blood pressure, and it aims to find ways to help prevent and treat this serious health problem.
Quick facts
| Grant type | U01 cooperative agreement |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Boston University Medical Campus NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10884915 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on the rising epidemic of chronic kidney disease (CKD) in agricultural communities in El Salvador and Nicaragua, particularly among younger men. It aims to uncover the unknown causes of CKD that are not linked to common factors like diabetes or hypertension. The study will involve a consortium of experts who will conduct field epidemiology, biological sampling, and environmental assessments to gather data. The goal is to identify potential therapeutic targets and public health interventions to combat this health crisis.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are agricultural workers in Central America, particularly younger men who are at higher risk for chronic kidney disease.
Not a fit: Patients who are not agricultural workers or those who do not reside in the affected regions of Central America may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment options for chronic kidney disease in affected populations.
How similar studies have performed: While similar epidemics of chronic kidney disease have been observed in other countries, this specific research approach is novel and aims to address a unique public health crisis.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Boston University Medical Campus — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Scammell, Madeleine — Boston University Medical Campus
- Study coordinator: Scammell, Madeleine
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.