Reducing hospital visits for COPD patients affected by wildfire smoke

Preventing hospitalizations for COPD exacerbations due to air pollution from wildfire smoke

NIH-funded research Kaiser Foundation Research Institute · NIH-11053613

This study is looking to help people with COPD by figuring out who might be more likely to end up in the hospital because of smoke from wildfires, and it will also test ways to improve their air quality at home, like using air cleaners.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionKaiser Foundation Research Institute NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Oakland, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-11053613 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research aims to identify patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) who are at high risk of hospitalization due to exacerbations caused by air pollution from wildfire smoke. The project will develop a prediction model using advanced analytics that incorporates air pollution data to better understand and mitigate the impact of environmental factors on these patients. Additionally, the study will explore the effectiveness of interventions, such as indoor air cleaners, to reduce exposure to harmful particulate matter. By focusing on diverse patient populations, the research seeks to address health disparities related to air quality.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), particularly those living in areas affected by wildfire smoke.

Not a fit: Patients with COPD who are not exposed to wildfire smoke or live in regions with good air quality may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved management strategies for COPD patients, reducing hospitalizations and enhancing their quality of life.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that interventions targeting air quality can improve health outcomes for patients with respiratory conditions, suggesting potential success for this approach.

Where this research is happening

Oakland, 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.
Conditions Burn injury
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.