close

Volunteers sought for red tide research study

By SANIBEL-CAPTIVA CONSERVATION FOUNDATION 2 min read
article image -

The Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation (SCCF) reported that the Roskamp Institute is looking for volunteers to participate in a four-year study examining the health effects of aerosolized brevetoxin exposure from harmful algal blooms.

By joining the study on red tide exposure, participants will help researchers understand how the toxins may enter, how long they stay and how they are eliminated in the body. The goal is to help improve knowledge about red tide and its impact on public health, while improving safety measures in affected areas.

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.

In partnership with the SCCF, Roskamp researchers will bring their mobile lab to the parking lot of the Bailey Homestead Preserve on Sanibel for two days during the week of Feb. 10 to meet with participants. Participants must be at least 18 years old and must meet inclusion/exclusion criteria.

During an active red tide bloom off the coast in 2021, about 80 islanders took part in a Roskamp study that found a connection between exposure to airborne red tide and neurological symptoms.

For more information about participating as a volunteer, call 941-256-8010.