Investigating the impact of hazardous waste on drinking water in tribal communities.
Columbia University and Northern Plains Partnership for the Superfund Research Program
This study is looking at how abandoned mines and hazardous waste sites might affect the drinking water quality on tribal lands in North and South Dakota, especially focusing on harmful metals like arsenic and uranium, to help find safe water sources and improve health for Native American communities.
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-10877756 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on the effects of hazardous waste sites and abandoned mines on drinking water quality in tribal lands, particularly in North and South Dakota. It aims to assess the levels of toxic metals like arsenic and uranium in private wells and rural water systems, which have been linked to higher rates of cardiovascular disease among Native Americans. The project will develop models to identify safe water sources and trace the origins of metal contamination using advanced scientific techniques. By collaborating with local communities, the research seeks to provide actionable insights for improving water safety and health outcomes.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation or benefit include residents of tribal lands in North and South Dakota who rely on private wells or rural water systems.
Not a fit: Patients living in urban areas or those not exposed to contaminated water sources may not receive any benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved drinking water safety and reduced health risks for communities affected by toxic metal exposure.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in addressing similar environmental health issues in other communities, indicating the potential for impactful outcomes in this study.
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.