Mapping arsenic exposure risks in drinking water
Geospatial modeling of iAs exposure
This study is looking at how long-term exposure to arsenic from private wells might raise the risk of type 2 diabetes, especially in kids and those who are more vulnerable, and it aims to find out which areas in North Carolina are most at risk so we can help people get safe drinking water.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chapel Hill, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10939013 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how chronic exposure to inorganic arsenic (iAs) from unregulated private wells may increase the risk of type 2 diabetes, particularly in children and vulnerable populations. The team will develop advanced geospatial models to predict arsenic contamination levels in untested wells across North Carolina, using a combination of environmental data and social factors. By identifying areas at high risk for exposure, the research aims to inform public health interventions and improve access to safe drinking water.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include children and families living in areas with unregulated private wells, particularly those with limited access to health services.
Not a fit: Patients who do not live in areas with potential arsenic exposure from private wells may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better identification of at-risk populations and improved public health strategies to reduce diabetes risk associated with arsenic exposure.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in using geospatial modeling to assess environmental health risks, indicating that this approach has potential for impactful findings.
Where this research is happening
Chapel Hill, United States
- Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill — Chapel Hill, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Serre, Marc Laurent — Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill
- Study coordinator: Serre, Marc Laurent
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.