Understanding health effects from toxin exposure in East Palestine, Ohio.
Official title: Uncovering the Short-Term Public Health Impact of Toxin Release in East Palestine, Ohio: Outcomes and Effect Modifiers
Funded at University of California, San Diego · NIH-11013951 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how exposure to toxins from the train derailment and controlled burn in East Palestine, Ohio, affects people's health in the short term, and it's inviting local residents to share their experiences and health information to help understand these impacts better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Diego NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, United States) |
| Project start | January 23, 2024 |
| Project end | December 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $197,500 |
| NIH project number | 5R21ES036163-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11013951 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation include individuals who were present in East Palestine during and after the train derailment and controlled burn.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who were not exposed to the toxins or who live outside the affected area may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the short-term health impacts on individuals exposed to toxins from the train derailment and controlled burn in East Palestine, Ohio. It aims to gather a cohort of participants for longitudinal follow-up, collecting survey data on their exposures, symptoms, and health effects. The study will also conduct laboratory tests on a subset of participants to assess the impact of specific toxins and will archive biological samples for future research. By analyzing these data, the research seeks to identify vulnerabilities and protective factors related to health outcomes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide critical insights into the health effects of environmental toxins, potentially leading to improved public health responses and interventions.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research on health effects from environmental toxins has shown significant findings, indicating that this approach is grounded in established methodologies.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California, San Diego
La Jolla, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Golomb, Beatrice a — University of California, San Diego
- Study coordinator: Golomb, Beatrice a
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.