Investigating the health effects of harmful algal blooms
Investigating Health Impacts of Exposure to Harmful Algal Blooms
This study is trying to see how exposure to toxins from harmful algal blooms affects people's health, especially their brain and immune system, by monitoring participants over time.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Enrollment | 400 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Roskamp Institute Inc. Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Sarasota, Florida) |
| Trial ID | NCT06883227 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This observational study aims to explore the biological impacts of environmental toxins, particularly those released during harmful algal blooms, such as brevetoxins and microcystin. It will assess the association between exposure to these marine toxins and the prevalence of neurological disorders, respiratory issues, and other health symptoms. Participants will be monitored through multiple visits to evaluate their health in relation to toxin exposure from local waters. The study seeks to understand the long-term effects of these toxins on cognitive and immune health.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18 or older who reside in southwest Florida counties affected by harmful algal blooms.
Not a fit: Patients with medical conditions that make enrollment inappropriate or those unable to provide biological samples may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide insights into the health risks associated with harmful algal blooms, potentially leading to better public health guidelines and interventions.
How similar studies have performed: While studies on environmental toxins exist, this specific investigation into the neurological impacts of harmful algal blooms is relatively novel.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: 1. Subject should be able to provide written informed consent. 2. Adult aged 18 or older. 3. Resident (temporary or permanent) of one of the following five southwest Florida counties (Lee, Collier, Charlotte, Sarasota, or Manatee). 4. Any race or ethnicity. 5. Willing to return for at least a total of four study visits and participate in all required procedures for the duration of the study. Exclusion Criteria: 1. Inability to speak or write in English. 2. Any medical condition for which the study investigator believes enrollment is medically inappropriate. 3. Unwilling/unable to provide biological samples or poor venous access.
Where this trial is running
Sarasota, Florida
- The Roskamp Institute — Sarasota, Florida, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Laila Abdullah Principal Investigator, Ph.D — The Roskamp Institute
- Study coordinator: Dakota Helgager Clinical Research Site Coordinator, Bachelor's
- Email: redtide@roskampclinic.org
- Phone: 9412568010
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.