Investigating how urban planning affects air pollution and asthma in minority communities
Official title: Urban planning, siting of air pollution sources, and asthma disparities
Funded at University of Texas at Austin · NIH-10975379 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how city planning affects air pollution in neighborhoods with a lot of racial and ethnic diversity in Texas, especially focusing on how this pollution relates to childhood asthma, so we can find ways to improve air quality and make healthier communities for everyone.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas at Austin NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Austin, United States) |
| Project start | January 27, 2023 |
| Project end | October 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $519,558 |
| NIH project number | 5R01ES034803-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10975379 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include children and adults living in minority neighborhoods with high exposure to air pollution and asthma-related health issues.
✕Less likely to help
Patients living in areas with low air pollution exposure or those without asthma may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research examines the relationship between urban planning policies and air pollution sources, particularly in racial and ethnic minority neighborhoods. It aims to identify specific air pollution sources and their concentrations, and how these relate to the demographics of the communities in Texas. The study will also explore the impact of zoning and gentrification on the distribution of these pollution sources, with a focus on childhood asthma disparities. By gathering and analyzing data, the research seeks to provide evidence that can inform better urban planning and air quality regulations.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved urban planning policies that reduce air pollution and asthma rates in vulnerable communities.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that urban planning and environmental factors significantly impact health disparities, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Texas at Austin
Austin, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Matsui, Elizabeth C. — University of Texas at Austin
- Study coordinator: Matsui, Elizabeth C.
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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.