Long Term Effects of Household Air Pollution Reduction on Cardiopulmonary and Immune Function Outcomes Using a Randomized mHealth Intervention in Bangladesh

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are studying the long-term effects of reducing household air pollution (HAP) from biomass fuel use on heart, lung, and immune health among women and children in semi-rural Bangladesh. The study evaluates whether a mobile phone-based behavioral change communication (mHealth BCC) intervention can increase the adoption and exclusive use of cleaner cooking fuel, Liquid Petroleum Gas (LPG). This research also investigates how lowering pollution exposure might influence immune responses to vaccines and subclinical cardiovascular and pulmonary changes. The study is a large household-level randomized controlled trial comparing two groups: one receiving the mHealth BCC intervention encouraging exclusive LPG use and a control group receiving no such intervention. Researchers will monitor personal and area levels of air pollutants like PM2.5 and black carbon before and after intervention, alongside detailed assessments including spirometry, chest X-rays, high-resolution CT scans, blood pressure, EKG, metabolic markers such as HbA1c and lipid profiles, and immune cell function. The intervention messages are delivered via mobile phone with frequency tailored to participant responses. Participants will be followed over two years with repeated measurements to assess pollutant exposure and health effects. Evaluations include lung function tests, imaging, cardiovascular markers, metabolic blood tests, and immune function assays. The study aims to provide insights into the health benefits of sustained LPG use and improved air quality. Total participation spans pre-intervention assessments through two years of follow-up, with ongoing monitoring of pollution exposure and health outcomes.

1/2- Bangladesh Center for Global Environmental and Occupational Health- Bangladesh