What types of diseases does the NIEHS study?
The NIEHS focuses on environmental diseases. These are conditions that occur due to a complex interplay between genetic susceptibility and environmental factors. Almost all common diseases are environmental including cancer, heart disease, diabetes, neural tube defects, asthma, and Alzheimers. These conditions develop because people have certain genes that predispose them towards the condition and are also exposed to certain environmental factors that trigger the condition. NIEHS researchers conduct many different types of clinical research studies to identify the genes that cause disease and investigate how our environment (toxic exposures, tobacco, lifestyle choices, exercise habits, diet, and weight control are just a few) interact with these genes. NIEHS researchers then use this information to develop new treatments and preventative strategies, and test their effectiveness in clinical trials. Where can I find out more about clinical research and studies for specific conditions? He
