Investigating groundwater contamination and its effects on health in rural communities
High Resolution Models of Groundwater Metal Exposures
This study is looking at how drinking water with metals like arsenic and uranium might impact the health of people living in rural and Native American communities, especially in relation to heart and metabolic diseases, and it aims to find ways to better understand and reduce these health risks.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Columbia University Health Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10877757 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how exposure to metals like arsenic and uranium in groundwater affects the health of individuals in rural and Native American communities. By analyzing existing data and collecting new groundwater samples, the study aims to identify contamination levels and their potential links to cardiometabolic diseases. The researchers will also develop predictive models using machine learning to better understand and mitigate these health risks. This approach seeks to fill critical gaps in knowledge about environmental hazards in these underserved areas.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living in rural or Native American communities who may be exposed to contaminated groundwater.
Not a fit: Patients who do not reside in rural areas or are not exposed to groundwater sources with high levels of metals may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved public health strategies and interventions to reduce metal exposure and its associated health risks.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown that addressing environmental exposures can significantly improve health outcomes, indicating that this research approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
New York, United States
- Columbia University Health Sciences — New York, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Chillrud, Steven N. — Columbia University Health Sciences
- Study coordinator: Chillrud, Steven N.
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.