Investigating the link between microplastic pollution in lung fluid and lung cancer
Epidemiologic study of microplastic pollution in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid and its association with lung cancer
This study is looking at tiny plastic particles in the lungs of people who might have lung cancer to see if they could be linked to the disease, and it involves around 275 patients at the Moffitt Cancer Center.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Ctr & Res Inst NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Tampa, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10944361 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research examines the presence of microplastics in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid from patients with suspected lung cancer. By analyzing samples collected during routine medical procedures, the study aims to understand how these tiny plastic particles may be associated with lung cancer development. The research will involve approximately 275 patients at the Moffitt Cancer Center, focusing on the potential health impacts of microplastics that have entered the lungs. The findings could provide critical insights into environmental factors contributing to lung cancer.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients undergoing bronchoalveolar lavage for suspected lung cancer or related conditions.
Not a fit: Patients without lung cancer or those not undergoing bronchoalveolar lavage may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a better understanding of environmental risks associated with lung cancer, potentially influencing prevention strategies.
How similar studies have performed: While the investigation of microplastics in human health is emerging, this specific approach to studying their impact on lung cancer is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Tampa, United States
- H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Ctr & Res Inst — Tampa, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Egan, Kathleen M. — H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Ctr & Res Inst
- Study coordinator: Egan, Kathleen M.
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.