Understanding blackouts caused by alcohol in young adults using sensors
Official title: Examining alcohol-induced blackouts in young adults using alcohol sensors
Funded at University of Oklahoma Hlth Sciences Ctr · NIH-11055600 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how often young adults experience blackouts from drinking too much alcohol by using special sensors to track their alcohol levels in real-time, so we can better understand the link between risky drinking and these blackouts, and ultimately find ways to help reduce drinking and its harmful effects.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Oklahoma Hlth Sciences Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Oklahoma City, United States) |
| Project start | September 25, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $258,073 |
| NIH project number | 1R21AA031528-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11055600 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are young adults who engage in heavy episodic drinking and are at risk of experiencing alcohol-induced blackouts.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not consume alcohol or engage in low-risk drinking behaviors may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the occurrence of alcohol-induced blackouts (AIBs) in young adults by utilizing advanced transdermal alcohol concentration biosensors. By monitoring alcohol levels in real-time, the study aims to uncover the relationship between risky drinking behaviors and the frequency of AIBs, as well as associated harmful consequences. Participants will provide data on their drinking habits, which will be compared against sensor readings to enhance the understanding of these blackouts. The goal is to improve interventions aimed at reducing both drinking and its negative outcomes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better prevention strategies and interventions for young adults at risk of alcohol-related harm.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that using biosensors to monitor alcohol consumption can provide valuable insights into drinking behaviors and their consequences, indicating a promising approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Oklahoma Hlth Sciences Ctr
Oklahoma City, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Richards, Veronica L — University of Oklahoma Hlth Sciences Ctr
- Study coordinator: Richards, Veronica L
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.