Why was the East Side chosen as the focus of the study?

While the research team is open to accepting participants from other parts of the city, the East Side was chosen as the primary focus because of the high rates of asthma in the area. Asthma rates are especially high among African American children: the asthma hospitalization rate per 10,000 of Black youth is 46.9, compared to 10.2 for white youth. The localized air quality measurements that this study seeks to collect are therefore needed to definitively link childhood asthma with exposure to air pollution on the East Side.

What is being measured? And how?

The monitors will measure the levels of particulate matter (PM2.5) and volatile organic compounds (VOC) in the air. The sensors are called “PurpleAir” and would be installed by the research team outside your home for an extended period.

What is needed to participate?

The PurpleAir sensors only need a wifi network and an outdoor power outlet. The research team will need to check on the sensors 6-8 times per year, but will not need to access your home. Though power is needed to run the sensors, the electric cost is only $1 per year. Participants will receive access to real-time air quality data outside their home, via an app connected to the PurpleAir sensors.

Is this study directly affiliated with the Kensington Expressway project?

While environmental factors such as highways contribute to air pollution, this study is not affiliated with the New York State Department of Transportation’s expressway project.