Investigating pollution exposure in communities near the Tijuana River
RP-Sant/Quintana: Assessment of Exposure to Microbial and Chemical Pollution in US Community Air from the Binational Tijuana River Watershed
This study is looking at how pollution from the Tijuana River affects the health of children aged 0-11 living near the US-Mexico border, and it aims to find ways to help families reduce their exposure to harmful chemicals and germs in the air.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | San Diego State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Diego, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11172389 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on assessing the health impacts of microbial and chemical pollution in communities near the US-Mexico border, particularly on children aged 0-11. It involves collecting air samples to analyze the presence of contaminants linked to the Tijuana River, which is heavily affected by sewage and industrial waste. The study aims to identify the sources of pollution and explore home-based interventions to reduce exposure risks for families. By utilizing advanced chemical analysis and metagenomics, the research seeks to understand the relationship between environmental pollutants and health outcomes in these vulnerable communities.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation are children aged 0-11 living in communities near the Tijuana River, particularly in San Ysidro and Imperial Beach.
Not a fit: Patients living outside the affected communities or those over the age of 11 may not receive direct benefits from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved health outcomes for children by reducing their exposure to harmful pollutants.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in addressing environmental health issues in similar border communities, indicating the potential effectiveness of this approach.
Where this research is happening
San Diego, United States
- San Diego State University — San Diego, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sant, Karilyn Elizabeth — San Diego State University
- Study coordinator: Sant, Karilyn Elizabeth
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 below.