Investigating the link between air pollution and preterm birth in Detroit

Epidemiological Study of Volatile Organic Compounds and Preterm Birth in Detroit

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · WAYNE STATE UNIVERSITY · NIH-10867389

This study is looking at how certain air pollutants might affect the chances of having a baby born too early, and it's for pregnant women in Detroit who want to help us understand this important issue.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorWAYNE STATE UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (DETROIT, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10867389 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding how exposure to volatile organic compounds (VOCs) affects the risk of preterm birth in Detroit, a city with the highest rates of this condition in the U.S. The study will recruit approximately 1,100 pregnant women from the Henry Ford Health System and follow them throughout their pregnancies. Researchers will analyze the impact of VOC exposure on maternal health and fetal development, looking specifically at common pollutants like benzene and toluene. By examining biological markers and health outcomes, the study aims to uncover the environmental factors contributing to preterm births.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation are pregnant women living in Detroit, particularly those who may be exposed to VOCs due to their living conditions.

Not a fit: Patients who are not pregnant or those living outside of the Detroit area may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved public health strategies and interventions to reduce preterm birth rates in high-risk populations.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated a correlation between environmental pollutants and adverse pregnancy outcomes, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

DETROIT, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.