Investigating the effects of toxic firefighting foam on community water safety
Studying AFFF Fate and Exposure to Pursue Outcomes that Restore Trust: SAFE PORT
This study is looking at how harmful chemicals from firefighting foams, called PFAS, affect the drinking water in McKeesport, PA, especially after they got into the water supply, and it aims to help the community understand the risks and find ways to keep their water safe.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pittsburgh, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10696148 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the impact of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), which are toxic chemicals found in firefighting foams, on the drinking water quality in McKeesport, PA. The study aims to assess the levels of PFAS in residential tap water and surrounding soils, particularly after an incident where PFAS was introduced into the local water supply. By evaluating how these substances behave in plumbing systems and the effectiveness of interventions to reduce exposure, the research seeks to provide valuable insights into environmental health risks. The project also emphasizes community engagement and education regarding the health implications of PFAS exposure.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include residents of McKeesport, PA, particularly those who may have been exposed to PFAS through their drinking water.
Not a fit: Patients who do not reside in areas affected by PFAS contamination or who have not been exposed to these substances may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved water safety and health outcomes for residents affected by PFAS contamination.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that PFAS exposure is linked to various health issues, indicating that understanding its behavior in water systems is a critical area of study.
Where this research is happening
Pittsburgh, United States
- University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh — Pittsburgh, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ng, Carla — University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh
- Study coordinator: Ng, Carla
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.