Roskamp Institute looks for volunteers in multi-year long red tide study on Sanibel Island

LEE COUNTY, Fla. —

The Sarasota-based Roskamp is looking to give Sanibel islanders the opportunity to participate in a four-year study examining the health effects of aerosolized brevetoxin exposure from red tide.

Roskamp's research, in partnership with the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation (SCCF) explores whether a common genetic factor, the apolipoprotein E allele, makes certain people more vulnerable to the effects of red tide. The effects include itchy eyes, coughing or a scratchy throat during a red tide bloom.

“Partnering with SCCF once again for this critical red tide study allows us to build on a strong foundation of research and community engagement,” said Laila Abdullah, Ph.D., a Roskamp scientist leading the study. “It is important to test participants both during blooms and outside of blooms so that we can see the differences.”

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. Participants must be at least 18 years old and must meet inclusion/exclusion criteria.

Anyone interested in volunteering can call 941-256-8010.

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