Investigating lung health in hairdressers exposed to harmful chemicals
Official title: The MELENA Study: Measurement of Exposures, Lung hEalth, and functioN in hAirdressers
Funded at Johns Hopkins University · NIH-11051204 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how chemicals used in hair salons might affect the lung health of hairdressers, especially those of color, to help find ways to keep their lungs healthier and reduce breathing problems.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project start | March 15, 2024 |
| Project end | January 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $634,052 |
| NIH project number | 5R01HL171490-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11051204 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are hairdressers, particularly those who are Black or Latina, and are 21 years or older.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not work in the hairdressing industry or are not exposed to similar chemical environments may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how exposure to chemicals in the hairdressing profession affects lung health, particularly among hairdressers of color who are at higher risk for respiratory issues. The study will measure the levels of harmful substances in the workplace and assess their impact on respiratory health through various biological markers and health assessments. By identifying these risks, the research aims to develop strategies to improve lung health and reduce the burden of chronic respiratory diseases in this population.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved health outcomes and preventive measures for hairdressers, reducing the incidence of respiratory diseases.
How similar studies have gone: While there have been limited studies on the effects of specific chemicals on respiratory health, this research aims to fill a gap by providing comprehensive exposure characterization and its effects on a specific at-risk population.
Where this research is happening
-
Johns Hopkins University
Baltimore, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Quiros-Alcala, Lesliam — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Quiros-Alcala, Lesliam
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.