NCT05172752 · Anna Hoover
A University-Community Partnership to Reduce Exposure to Disinfection Byproducts In Appalachia
What this study is about
Appalachian Kentuckians in Martin and Letcher Counties are grappling with a health-threatening drinking water crisis arising from exposures to disinfection by-products (DBPs).
View original scientific description
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 (THMs), 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 implements a multi-stakeholder, multi-method approach to improve understanding of, characterize spatial and temporal variations in, and reduce exposure to DBPs in these Appalachian Kentucky counties.
Interventions
OTHER
Citizen Scientist Training Program
Citizen Scientist Training Program Participants is a three year training and in-home sampling program for disinfection byproducts. Participants will be trained and assessed based on their experience in the training program.
OTHER
Stakeholder Consultation Core Program
Stakeholder Consultation Core Program Participants is a five year assessments where participants will participate in quarterly meetings and deliberative activities related to disinfection byproducts. Participants will be assessed based on their experience in the program.
Primary outcome measures
Change in Environmental Health Literacy (EHL) - Knowledge
Time frame: Baseline, 5-years
Study participants will complete pre-/post-surveys of disinfection byproducts-related knowledge. Participants will answer 21 questions with multiple choice or fill in the blank response options that will be assessed for correctness/completeness.
Change in Environmental Health Literacy (EHL) - Attitudes/Behaviors
Time frame: Baseline, 5-years
Study participants will complete pre-/post-surveys of disinfection byproducts-related attitudes. Participants will answer 9 questions related attitudes/behaviors with a five-point Likert scale, ranging from Strongly Disagree to Strongly Agree, where Strongly Agree indicates a greater likelihood for the behavior/more positive attitude.
Change in participant network density
Time frame: Baseline, 5-years
The proportion of direct ties within the network as compared to the number of possible ties as measured by an unbounded social media analysis.
Change in participant centrality
Time frame: Baseline, 5-years
The influence of each individual within the network (i.e., betweenness and degree centrality) as measured by an unbounded social media analysis.
Change in participant reciprocity
Time frame: Baseline, 5-years
The number of reciprocal ties, which is the extent to which individuals within the network recognize each other as valued resources/collaborators as measured by an unbounded social media analysis.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Located in Martin or Letcher County water districts
- At least 18 years old
- Able to read/speak in English
Exclusion criteria
- Located outside of Martin or Letcher County water districts
Where
- Lexington, Kentucky
Collaborators
National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS)
Related conditions & keywords
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Aug 27, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations