Understanding the effects of PFAS in drinking water on children's immune health
Official title: Assessment of pediatric immunotoxicity, public education, and capacity-building in communities impacted by PFAS-contaminated drinking water
Funded at Silent Spring Institute · NIH-10436901 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain chemicals in drinking water, called PFAS, might affect the immune health of children in communities that have been exposed to these substances, especially from firefighting foams, and it aims to create helpful resources to inform families about the health risks and options available to them.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Silent Spring Institute NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Newton, United States) |
| Project start | September 7, 2018 |
| Project end | June 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2022 |
| Award (this year) | $514,966 |
| NIH project number | 5R01ES028311-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-10436901 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include children living in communities with PFAS-contaminated drinking water.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not reside in areas affected by PFAS contamination may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the impact of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) found in drinking water on the immune health of children. It focuses on communities affected by PFAS contamination, particularly those exposed to firefighting foams. The study will assess immune responses in young children and develop educational resources to help communities understand health risks and treatment options. By collaborating with local communities, the project aims to provide valuable information and support for those impacted by PFAS.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved health guidelines and protective measures for children exposed to PFAS in drinking water.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have indicated potential health risks associated with PFAS exposure, suggesting that this research builds on established findings rather than being entirely novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Silent Spring Institute
Newton, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Schaider, Laurel a. — Silent Spring Institute
- Study coordinator: Schaider, Laurel 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.