Investigating the health effects of metals in Native American communities
Health Effects of Metals in Native American Communities: A Longitudinal Multi-omics Study
This study is looking at how being around metals like arsenic and uranium for a long time affects the health of Native American communities, especially in relation to heart and diabetes issues, by using data from the Strong Heart Study collected over 30 years and inviting new participants to join.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Columbia University Health Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10877760 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how long-term exposure to metals like arsenic and uranium affects the health of Native American populations, particularly concerning cardiometabolic diseases such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease. By analyzing data collected over 30 years from participants in the Strong Heart Study, the research aims to uncover the lasting impacts of these exposures on health outcomes. The study will involve both historical data and new participant recruitment to explore the joint effects of these metals and their biological mechanisms.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include Native American individuals, particularly those with a history of exposure to arsenic or uranium, and those with or at risk for cardiometabolic diseases.
Not a fit: Patients who do not belong to Native American communities or who have not been exposed to the metals being studied may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved health interventions and policies that address the unique health challenges faced by Native American communities.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown significant associations between metal exposure and health outcomes in similar populations, indicating that this research builds on established findings.
Where this research is happening
New York, United States
- Columbia University Health Sciences — New York, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Navas-Acien, Ana — Columbia University Health Sciences
- Study coordinator: Navas-Acien, Ana
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.