Investigating the effects of prenatal exposure to PFAS on childhood infections and allergies

Prenatal per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) exposure and associations with common childhood infections and allergies: A study of risks and resiliencies in the ECHO Program

NIH-funded research Drexel University · NIH-10977496

This study is looking at how being exposed to certain chemicals during pregnancy might affect kids' chances of getting infections and allergies, and it's for parents who want to know more about how these substances could impact their children's health.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionDrexel University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Philadelphia, United States)
Project IDNIH-10977496 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research examines how exposure to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) during pregnancy may influence the development of infections and allergies in children. By analyzing data from the Environmental Influences on Child Health Outcomes (ECHO) program, the study will look at the relationship between prenatal PFAS levels and various health outcomes in children under 12 years old. The researchers will use advanced statistical methods to assess these associations, focusing on common childhood illnesses like bronchiolitis and allergies such as atopic dermatitis. This work aims to fill a gap in understanding the health impacts of PFAS exposure on immune function in children.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 0-11 years whose mothers were exposed to PFAS during pregnancy.

Not a fit: Patients who are older than 11 years or those without prenatal PFAS exposure may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and prevention strategies for childhood infections and allergies linked to environmental exposures.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have indicated potential health risks associated with PFAS exposure, but this specific investigation into childhood infections and allergies is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

Philadelphia, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.