A university-community partnership to reduce exposure to disinfection byproducts in Appalachia

University Of Kentucky, Lexington KY

Investigators

Linked publications & trials

Abstract

Appalachian Kentuckians in Martin and Letcher Counties are grappling with a health-threatening drinking water crisis arising from exposures to disinfection by-products (DBPs) .. DBPs include trihalomethanes (TH Ms), haloacetic acids (HAAs), chlorate, and other compounds that have been associated with a variety of adverse health effects, including increased risk of bladder cancer and cardiovascular birth defects. This study, which builds on findings from two community-engaged NIEHS P30-funded pilot studies and one P30-funded community grant, implements a multistakeholder, multi-method approach to raise understanding of, characterize spatial and temporal variations in, and reduce exposure to DBPs in Martin and Letcher Counties. This research seeks to achieve the following aims: To accomplish these goals, we will pursue three Specific Aims: 1) Enhance existing multisectoral partnerships via a formalized Stakeholder Consultation Core that informs and evaluates study components; strengthens multidirectional communication; increases participants' EHL; and collaboratively builds partnerships and trust among community groups, public officials, and university researchers; 2) Examine the associations between home location, home characteristics, temporal variation and multi-route DBP exposure risks resulting from small drinking water systems. We hypothesize that exposure risks are generally greatest in autumn and summer, but are dynamically influenced by home characteristics and precise home location within the water distribution network; and 3) Apply emerging knowledge of source water chemistry and system operating conditions to develop, validate, and disseminate predictive models that can support small drinking water utilities in reducing DBP formation. Through collaboration among community partners a university-based and, we will refine multi-stakeholder research processes and generate translational products that will be transferrable to other rural communities facing similar drinking water infrastructure challenges, ultimately helping reduce DBP exposure.