Investigating the reproductive health effects of wildfire smoke on male firefighters
Official title: Understanding and Communicating Reproductive Health Consequences for Male Wildland Firefighters
Funded at Colorado State University · NIH-10953131 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how breathing in wildfire smoke might impact the reproductive health of male wildland firefighters by checking their sperm quality and any changes in their genes, to help understand any fertility issues they might face from their job.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Colorado State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Fort Collins, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $171,658 |
| NIH project number | 1R21OH012750-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10953131 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation are male wildland firefighters who are regularly exposed to wildfire smoke during their duties.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not involved in firefighting or who do not have occupational exposure to wildfire smoke may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how exposure to wildfire smoke affects the reproductive health of male wildland firefighters. The study will involve assessing sperm quality and epigenetic changes in firefighters who are regularly exposed to smoke during their work. By analyzing samples from these individuals, the research aims to identify potential fertility issues and health risks associated with their occupation. The findings could provide valuable insights into the long-term health consequences of firefighting.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved health guidelines and interventions for male firefighters, potentially enhancing their reproductive health and overall well-being.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific focus on reproductive health in firefighters is novel, related research has shown that occupational exposure to smoke can have significant health impacts.
Where this research is happening
-
Colorado State University
Fort Collins, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Montrose, Luke Benjamin — Colorado State University
- Study coordinator: Montrose, Luke Benjamin
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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.