Publications
A selection of recent, impactful publications from the Columbia University Northern Plains Superfund Research Program has been provided below. At the bottom of the page you'll find a button to view all of our publications on PubMed.
The Strong Heart Water Study (SHWS) implemented a community-led program to reduce arsenic exposure in Northern Great Plains American Indian Nations. Over two years, installing arsenic filters and providing mHealth support significantly reduced urinary arsenic levels and increased the use of arsenic-safe water for drinking and cooking. This approach shows promise for mitigating arsenic exposure from private wells
Recent studies show racial/ethnic disparities in arsenic and uranium levels in US public water systems. Analyzing data from 2000-2011, higher concentrations of these contaminants were found in areas with more Hispanic/Latino and American Indian/Alaskan Native residents. These findings highlight the need for targeted environmental justice efforts to protect affected communities.
The Strong Heart Family Study (SHFS) and the Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis (MESA) found that even at low concentrations, arsenic (As) and uranium (U) in water significantly contribute to urinary biomarkers. Both unregulated private wells and regulated community water systems (CWSs) were major sources of exposure. These findings suggest that further drinking water regulations and interventions are necessary to reduce As and U exposure and associated health risks in diverse US populations.