Investigating the link between PFAS chemicals and liver cancer risk
Perfluoroalkyl Substances (PFASs) and Liver Cancer Risk in the United States
This study is looking at how exposure to certain chemicals called PFAS might be linked to liver cancer, especially in different racial groups like African Americans and Hispanics, and it’s for people who want to understand more about the health risks associated with these substances.
Quick facts
| Grant type | U01 cooperative agreement |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Yale University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New Haven, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11077421 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research aims to explore the potential connection between exposure to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and the incidence of liver cancer in the United States. By conducting a comprehensive prospective pooled cohort study, the researchers will assess real-world human exposure to various types and mixtures of PFAS, particularly focusing on non-occupational settings. The study will also investigate disparities in liver cancer incidence among different racial groups, particularly African Americans and Hispanics, to better understand the underlying risk factors. Participants will be monitored over time to gather data on their exposure levels and health outcomes related to liver cancer.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals living in the United States who may have been exposed to PFAS, particularly those from African American and Hispanic communities.
Not a fit: Patients who have liver cancer primarily caused by viral infections such as hepatitis B or C may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the identification of novel risk factors for liver cancer, ultimately helping to reduce its burden in affected populations.
How similar studies have performed: While there is emerging evidence linking PFAS to liver cancer from animal studies and occupational data, this comprehensive approach in non-occupational settings is novel and has not been extensively tested.
Where this research is happening
New Haven, United States
- Yale University — New Haven, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zhang, Xuehong — Yale University
- Study coordinator: Zhang, Xuehong
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.