Evaluating DNA Methylation in Veterans Exposed to Burn Pits
Official title: DNA Methylation Markers Associated With Exposure and Adverse Health Outcomes in Veterans Exposed to Airborne Hazards From Open Burn Pits
Run by Central Arkansas Veterans Healthcare System · NCT06305091 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is trying to see how exposure to burn pits affects the health of veterans by looking at their DNA and collecting health information.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Ages | 25 Years to 70 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 330 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Central Arkansas Veterans Healthcare System Federal |
| Locations | 1 site (North Little Rock, Arkansas) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | March 13, 2023 |
| Main results expected | March 31, 2027 |
| Study ends | March 31, 2027 |
| Registry record updated | March 12, 2024 |
| Trial ID | NCT06305091 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are veterans aged 25-70 who have been deployed and reside in Arkansas, particularly those registered in the burn pit registry.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients who have significant exposure to other toxic substances or who are current tobacco users may not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This observational study aims to assess the health effects of exposure to open burn pits among veterans by analyzing DNA methylation markers and other health indicators. Participants will include veterans registered in the VA Airborne Hazards and Open Burn Pit Registry, as well as non-participants, to provide a comprehensive evaluation of both physical and mental health comorbidities. The study will involve health surveys and the collection of blood and urine samples to identify potential biomarkers related to toxic exposure. The goal is to better understand the long-term health impacts of burn pit exposure on veterans.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide critical insights into the health effects of burn pit exposure, potentially leading to improved healthcare strategies for affected veterans.
How similar studies have gone: While there have been studies on burn pit exposure, this specific approach focusing on DNA methylation markers is relatively novel and untested.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Age 25-70 years * Participants that reside in Arkansas * All Veterans that are deployed * Participants registered in the AHOBPR burn pit registry mainly for exposed Veterans. However, unexposed participants from the registry could also be included. * Participants not listed in the AHOBPR burn pit registry mainly for unexposed Veterans. However, exposed participants not from the registry could also be included. * Non-smokers: defined as smoke less than 10 cigarettes during lifetime. * Fluent in English Exclusion Criteria: * Any occupation and/or hobbies involves diesel exhaust, welding, paint, or other chemical fumes or organic dust * Any use of tobacco or nicotine products within the past year, such as smoking (cigarettes, pipes, cigars, e-cigarettes, vaping devices) * Self-report and/or chart review that patient is pregnant * Self-report and/or chart review that patient weight is less than 110 lbs * Participants whom the PI deems to be otherwise ineligible
Where it's running
-
Central Arkansas Veterans Healthcare System (3J/NLR)
North Little Rock, Arkansas, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Kalpana Padala, MD, MS — Central Arkansas Veterans Healthcare System, Little Rock, AR
- Study coordinator: Kalpana Padala, MD, MS
- Email: kalpana.padala@va.gov
- Phone: 501-257-2044
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.