Investigating health issues in firefighters exposed to World Trade Center dust

Aerodigestive Disease in the World Trade Center Exposed FDNY Cohort: Validation of Biomarkers and Defining Risk to Tailor Therapy

NIH-funded research New York University School of Medicine · NIH-10995131

This study is looking at firefighters from the FDNY who were exposed to dust from the World Trade Center to better understand their breathing and digestive health issues, so we can find better treatments to help them feel better and improve their quality of life.

Quick facts

Grant typeU01 cooperative agreement
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionNew York University School of Medicine NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New York, United States)
Project IDNIH-10995131 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on firefighters from the FDNY who were exposed to particulate matter from the World Trade Center collapse. It aims to validate biomarkers related to obstructive airways disease, gastroesophageal reflux disease, and Barrett’s Esophagus, which are prevalent among this cohort. By understanding these health issues better, the study seeks to tailor therapies that can improve the quality of life for affected individuals. The research will also explore the connections between these conditions and lung health, providing insights into effective management strategies.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation are firefighters and first responders who were exposed to World Trade Center particulate matter.

Not a fit: Patients who were not exposed to World Trade Center dust or do not have related health issues may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment options and better health outcomes for firefighters suffering from respiratory and gastrointestinal conditions.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown significant health impacts from similar exposures, indicating that this approach is grounded in established findings.

Where this research is happening

New York, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.