Investigating the effects of thirdhand smoke exposure on children

Prevalence and Clinical Correlates of Thirdhand Smoke Exposure in a Pediatric Patient Population

NIH-funded research Cincinnati Childrens Hosp Med Ctr · NIH-10673044

This study is looking at how the leftover chemicals from tobacco smoke, called thirdhand smoke, can affect kids' health, even in homes where no one is smoking, by checking for problems like inflammation and breathing issues.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionCincinnati Childrens Hosp Med Ctr NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Cincinnati, United States)
Project IDNIH-10673044 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research examines the impact of thirdhand smoke (THS), which is the toxic residue left behind from tobacco smoke, on pediatric patients. It focuses on how children, even in smoke-free environments, can still be exposed to harmful pollutants that linger on surfaces like carpets and furniture. The study employs in-vitro and animal models, as well as pilot studies with children, to assess the health effects of THS, including inflammation and respiratory issues. By understanding the clinical correlates of THS exposure, the research aims to highlight the risks associated with this often-overlooked form of tobacco exposure.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 0-11 years who may have been exposed to thirdhand smoke in their home or environment.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have any exposure to tobacco smoke or its residues may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and prevention strategies for health issues related to thirdhand smoke exposure in children.

How similar studies have performed: While there has been research on secondhand smoke, studies focusing exclusively on thirdhand smoke exposure in children are limited, making this approach relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

Cincinnati, 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 2026-06-13 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.