Using AI to improve walking environments in rural areas to prevent cancer

Developing AI-measures of Pedestrian Environment Features for Physical Activity and Cancer Prevention in Rural Communities

['FUNDING_R21'] · ARIZONA STATE UNIVERSITY-TEMPE CAMPUS · NIH-11104485

This study is looking at how smart technology can help make walking areas in small towns better, so people can be more active and healthier, especially to help lower cancer risks related to not getting enough exercise.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R21']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorARIZONA STATE UNIVERSITY-TEMPE CAMPUS (nih funded)
Locations1 site (TEMPE, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11104485 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how artificial intelligence can assess and improve pedestrian environments in rural communities to encourage physical activity. By focusing on smaller, manageable features like sidewalks and crosswalks, the study aims to identify what changes can be made to promote healthier lifestyles. The project will utilize machine learning algorithms to analyze these features and their impact on physical activity levels, particularly in areas where resources are limited. The goal is to create actionable insights that can help reduce cancer rates linked to low physical activity in these populations.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 65 and older living in rural areas with limited access to physical activity resources.

Not a fit: Patients who live in urban areas or those under 65 years of age may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to healthier living environments that encourage physical activity and ultimately reduce cancer incidence in rural communities.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in using AI to assess urban environments, but this approach in rural settings is novel and untested.

Where this research is happening

TEMPE, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.