Investigating the link between PFAS exposure and cancer risk in children

Exposure to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and risk of cancer in children

NIH-funded research University of California Berkeley · NIH-10678857

This study is looking at how certain chemicals called PFAS, which can be found in things like drinking water and household dust, might affect the risk of cancer in children, and it aims to help us understand the health impacts on kids during important stages of their growth.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California Berkeley NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Berkeley, United States)
Project IDNIH-10678857 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding how exposure to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) affects the risk of developing cancer in children. The study will analyze various exposure routes, including drinking water, blood samples from newborns and pregnant women, and household dust. By examining these factors during critical developmental periods, the research aims to provide insights into the potential health impacts of PFAS on young populations. The project involves collaboration among experts in pediatric epidemiology and environmental health to ensure a comprehensive approach.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include children and pregnant women living in areas with known PFAS contamination.

Not a fit: Patients who do not live in PFAS-contaminated areas or who are not within the age range of 0-21 years may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and prevention strategies for childhood cancers linked to PFAS exposure.

How similar studies have performed: While there have been reports of childhood cancer clusters in PFAS-affected areas, this research is among the first to systematically assess the cancer risk in children due to PFAS exposure.

Where this research is happening

Berkeley, 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.