Using backpack hydration systems to help farmworkers stay hydrated
Official title: Backpack Hydration System Use Among Farmworkers
Funded at East Carolina University · NIH-10864281 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how to make it easier for farmworkers to stay hydrated while they work in the heat by using special backpack water systems, and it will involve talking to farmworkers to understand their needs and measuring how well these systems help them drink enough water.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | East Carolina University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Greenville, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $108,000 |
| NIH project number | 1K01OH012697-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10864281 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are Latino farmworkers who work in hot agricultural environments and may be at risk for heat-related illnesses.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not work in agricultural settings or who are not exposed to high temperatures may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how to effectively implement backpack hydration systems for farmworkers to improve their access to water while working in hot conditions. The study will involve focus group discussions with farmworkers to identify barriers and facilitators to using these hydration systems. Additionally, the research will assess the feasibility and effectiveness of these systems by measuring fluid intake and hydration status among participants. The goal is to reduce the risk of heat-related illnesses in this vulnerable population.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce heat-related illnesses among farmworkers by ensuring they have better access to hydration.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific approach of using backpack hydration systems is novel, previous research has shown that improving access to hydration can effectively reduce heat-related illnesses in similar populations.
Where this research is happening
-
East Carolina University
Greenville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mizelle, Elizabeth — East Carolina University
- Study coordinator: Mizelle, Elizabeth
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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.