by SC Reporter Emilie Alfino
Dr. Barb Kirkpatrick and Dr. Laila Abdullah of the Sarasota-based Roskamp Institute are conducting a study to investigate the impact of red tide toxins on brain health. The study relies on community volunteers, with more than 250 community volunteers from Sarasota, Manatee, Lee, Charlotte, and Collier counties participating so far.
In 2022, findings from their work provided new evidence that red tide exposure can affect human brain health. Ongoing research seeks to understand why different people respond to the toxins in different ways and the levels of threat that the toxin poses.
The Roskamp Institute is seeking additional volunteers (who remain anonymous) to participate in the four-year study. By joining the study, participants will help researchers understand how these toxins may enter, how long they stay, and how they are eliminated from the body.
The study seeks 400 participants in Southwest Florida to wear a personal air monitor, provide biological samples, complete health surveys, and return for follow-up procedures, including repeat sampling and health checks.
Volunteers interested in learning more about how to participate in the Red Tide Study can click here or call 941-256-8010.
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