Investigating the link between arsenic in drinking water and cancer in New Mexico's border counties

Arsenic Exposure and its Association with Cancers among Residents with Wells in New Mexico's Border Counties

NIH-funded research New Mexico State University Las Cruces · NIH-10936461

This study is looking at how drinking water with arsenic affects cancer rates in people living in rural New Mexico, especially those using private wells, to help improve health and raise awareness in these communities.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionNew Mexico State University Las Cruces NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Las Cruces, United States)
Project IDNIH-10936461 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research examines how exposure to arsenic in drinking water affects cancer rates among residents in rural New Mexico, particularly those relying on private wells. The study focuses on six border counties where arsenic levels are notably high and cancer incidence is alarming. Researchers will collect and analyze water samples and health data to understand the relationship between arsenic exposure and cancer development. The goal is to raise awareness and provide insights that could lead to better health outcomes for affected communities.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults living in rural New Mexico border counties who use well water for drinking.

Not a fit: Patients who do not reside in the targeted rural areas or do not use well water for drinking 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 cancer risk associated with arsenic exposure.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated a strong association between arsenic exposure and increased cancer risk, suggesting that this study builds on established findings.

Where this research is happening

Las Cruces, 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.