Investigating how environmental factors affect cancer risk in Michigan communities

MI-CARES: The Michigan Cancer and Research on the Environment Study

NIH-funded research University of Michigan at Ann Arbor · NIH-11170048

The MI-CARES project is looking at how different environmental factors, like air pollution and chemicals in everyday products, might affect cancer risk in Michigan communities, especially considering things like race and income, and you can help by sharing information about your health and what you’re exposed to.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Michigan at Ann Arbor NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Ann Arbor, United States)
Project IDNIH-11170048 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

The MI-CARES project aims to understand the impact of various environmental exposures on cancer risk, particularly in Michigan, where communities have faced significant environmental challenges. This research will examine both well-known carcinogens like air pollution and heavy metals, as well as emerging concerns such as PFAS and chemicals in personal care products. By analyzing how these exposures vary by factors like race, socioeconomic status, and geographic location, the study seeks to provide a comprehensive view of environmental health disparities. Participants may contribute to this important work by providing data on their health and environmental exposures.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation include individuals living in Michigan, particularly in areas with known environmental pollution issues, and those who may have been exposed to various environmental carcinogens.

Not a fit: Patients who do not reside in Michigan or who have not been exposed to significant environmental pollutants may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and prevention strategies for cancer related to environmental factors.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in linking environmental exposures to health outcomes, making this approach both relevant and necessary.

Where this research is happening

Ann Arbor, 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.