Health Outcomes Associated With Algal Blooms of Cyanobacteria and Red Tide in in Florida: Long-Term Health Impacts of Harmful Algal Bloom Exposure, Phase 2
University of Central Florida
Summary
The purpose of this study is to compare the frequency of symptoms, exposure and health impacts in persons living in areas where they are exposed to bloom and non-bloom periods of cyanobacteria and red tide in Florida.
Description
Florida has experienced multiple harmful algal blooms during the past several years of two predominant types of Florida red tides occur in the Gulf of Mexico and are due to proliferation of the dinoflagellate Karenia brevis which produces a suite of highly irritative compounds known as brevetoxins. Human illness is primarily due to inhalation of aerosols, which results in a well-characterized syndrome of respiratory tract symptoms due to the irritative effects of brevetoxin. The proposed study will utilize a case-control approach to compare symptom frequency during bloom and non-bloom period…
Eligibility
- Age range
- 18+ years
- Sex
- All
- Healthy volunteers
- Yes
Inclusion Criteria: * 18 years or older * live, visit, and/ or work in the following Florida counties: Indian River, St. Lucie, Charlotte, Collier, Hendry, Hillsborough, Lee, Manatee, Martin, Monroe, Okeechobee, Palm Beach, Pasco, Pinellas, Indian River, and/or Sarasota * able to read and understand English Exclusion Criteria: * unable to independently consent * younger than 18 years old * prisoner * pregnant women
Location
- University of Central FloridaMultiple Locations, Florida