Investigating how fine particulate air pollution affects mortality from Alzheimer's disease
Official title: Variations in long-term fine particulate matter air pollution associations with mortality by particle size, source, and composition - Diversity Supplement
Funded at New York University School of Medicine · NIH-11019280 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how breathing in tiny air pollution particles over a long time might affect the risk of dying from Alzheimer's disease, and it's for older adults who want to understand how their environment could impact their brain health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | New York University School of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project start | June 15, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $232,267 |
| NIH project number | 3R01ES035468-01S1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11019280 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals aged 65 and older, particularly those with or at risk for Alzheimer's disease.
✕Less likely to help
Patients under the age of 65 or those without any risk factors for Alzheimer's disease may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research aims to explore the relationship between long-term exposure to fine particulate matter (PM2.5) air pollution and mortality rates specifically related to Alzheimer's disease. By analyzing data from a large cohort of over 500,000 older adults, the study will assess how different characteristics of PM2.5, such as particle size, source, and composition, influence health outcomes. The research seeks to fill gaps in understanding the impact of air pollution on neurodegenerative disorders, particularly Alzheimer's disease. Participants will be monitored for health outcomes in relation to their exposure to varying levels of PM2.5.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved public health strategies aimed at reducing Alzheimer's disease mortality linked to air pollution.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has indicated associations between air pollution and various health outcomes, but this specific focus on Alzheimer's disease mortality is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
New York University School of Medicine
New York, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Thurston, George Douglas — New York University School of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Thurston, George Douglas
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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.