Investigating how fluoride exposure affects brain development in children and adolescents
Official title: Longitudinal Impact of Fluoride on Neurodevelopment and Neuroimaging Outcomes During Childhood and Adolescence in the United States and Mexico
Funded at University of Cincinnati · NIH-11141316 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how fluoride exposure might affect the brain development and behavior of children and teenagers, especially in relation to issues like ADHD, anxiety, and aggression, to help us understand any potential risks during their early years.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Cincinnati NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cincinnati, United States) |
| Project start | September 24, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $639,686 |
| NIH project number | 1R56ES036268-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11141316 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 0-20 years who have been exposed to fluoride, particularly during prenatal and early childhood periods.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not within the age range of 0-20 years or who have not been exposed to fluoride may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research examines the effects of fluoride exposure on neurodevelopment and brain structure in children and adolescents. By analyzing data from two established longitudinal birth cohorts, the study aims to understand how fluoride exposure during critical developmental periods influences cognitive abilities and behavioral outcomes. Researchers will measure fluoride levels and assess neurobehavioral data to explore associations with conditions like ADHD, anxiety, and aggression. The goal is to provide insights into the potential risks of fluoride exposure during early life.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved guidelines for fluoride exposure, potentially enhancing cognitive and behavioral health in children.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies in Canada and Mexico have suggested potential links between fluoride exposure and neurodevelopmental issues, indicating that this research builds on existing findings.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Cincinnati
Cincinnati, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Brunst, Kelly J — University of Cincinnati
- Study coordinator: Brunst, Kelly J
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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.