Metals exposure and health on tribal lands in the Southwest
UNM Metals Exposure and Toxicity Assessment on tribal Lands in the Southwest (METALS) Superfund Research Program
This project looks at how living near abandoned uranium mines affects the health of Indigenous communities in the Southwest and what can be done to lower metal exposures.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of New Mexico Health Scis Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Albuquerque, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11124904 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This project works with my community to measure metals in people and in the environment (soil, water, dust) and to link those measurements with health problems like high blood pressure and immune changes. Researchers collect blood and urine samples, environmental samples, and health information while partnering closely with tribal leaders to make sure the work respects culture and community needs. The team studies how tiny particles from mine waste move and how mixtures of metals may increase harm, and they use those findings to design clinical and community interventions and to help prioritize cleanups. Results and recommendations are shared with the community so families and local agencies can take protective actions.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People living on or near Navajo Nation, Laguna Pueblo, or other tribal lands with abandoned uranium mines who are willing to provide health information and biological or environmental samples are the best candidates.
Not a fit: People who do not live near affected mining sites or who are unable or unwilling to provide samples or follow-up information are unlikely to benefit directly from participation.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lower harmful metal exposures, improve detection of exposure-related health problems, and guide cleanup and health programs for affected communities.
How similar studies have performed: Previous community-based biomonitoring and remediation efforts have lowered exposures and informed cleanups, but detailed study of metal nanoparticles and multi-metal exposure patterns is relatively new.
Where this research is happening
Albuquerque, United States
- University of New Mexico Health Scis Ctr — Albuquerque, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Cerrato, Jose Manuel — University of New Mexico Health Scis Ctr
- Study coordinator: Cerrato, Jose Manuel
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.