NIEHS/EPA Children's Environmental Health and Disease Prevention Research Centers

Program Description

Since 1998, the NIEHS/EPA Children’s Environmental Health and Disease Prevention Research Centers have studied individual, regional, national, and global environmental exposures and the effects on children’s health.

Pound-for-pound, children have increased risks from environmental exposures because their bodily systems—cardiovascular, digestive, immune, nervous, and others—are still developing. Environmental health researchers now recognize that low level exposures, especially during early developmental growth periods, such as in utero or neonatal, can have long-lasting effects. This research evolution demonstrates that environmental health effects are complex—not a simple relationship between a particular type and amount of exposure and disease. New science shows that combined chemical exposures affect growth and development in ways not previously recognized.

The centers connect basic scientists, behavioral scientists, social scientists, pediatricians and other clinicians, and public health professionals, all working together to improve the health and environments of children. The centers apply community-based, participatory research techniques in which community organization partners play a vital role in informing, implementing, and sharing what the findings mean. Additionally, each center has a designated physician scientist to ensure research is translated into practical information for health care providers. To keep breakthrough discoveries coming and maintain a pipeline of experienced environmental health scientists, they are also dedicated to developing the next generation of researchers.

Contributions from this unique national network of research centers lead to long-term economic and social benefits along with improved health.

NIEHS/EPA Children's Environmental Health and Disease Prevention Research Centers

Program Contacts

Program Lead for Childen's Environmental Health

Kimberly Gray, Ph.D.
Health Scientist Administrator

Tel (919) 541-0293
gray6@niehs.nih.gov

530 Davis Dr
Keystone Building
Durham, NC 27713
Delivery Instructions

Program Lead for Autism Research

Cindy Lawler, Ph.D.
Branch Chief

Tel (919) 316-4671
Fax (919) 541-5064
lawler@niehs.nih.gov

P.O. Box 12233
Mail Drop K3-15
Research Triangle Park, NC 27709 530 Davis Dr
Keystone Building
Durham, NC 27713
Delivery | Postal
Delivery Instructions

Program Lead for Outreach and Translation

Liam O'Fallon, M.A.
Program Analyst

Tel (919) 541-7733
Fax (919) 316-4606
ofallon@niehs.nih.gov

P.O. Box 12233
Mail Drop K3-12
Research Triangle Park, NC 27709 530 Davis Dr
Keystone Building
Durham, NC 27713
Delivery | Postal
Delivery Instructions