Today, ten islanders, including some SCCF staff, are participating in the Roskamp Institute’s red tide research study.

The Sarasota-based Roskamp Institute has an RV set up in the parking lot of SCCF headquarters on San-Cap Road to facilitate their participation during the current active 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 bloom and outside of the bloom so that we can see the differences between the two times.”

During an active red tide bloom off our 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. Read about it here.

“We are looking forward to their continued participation. They can reach out to us for more information,” said Abullah.

The Roskamp Institute is still looking for volunteers (who remain anonymous) to participate in the 4-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 in the body.

“Understanding the brain health impact of aerosolized exposure to red tide toxins is essential for protecting public health, and SCCF’s expertise and local knowledge are invaluable in advancing this effort,” said Abdullah.

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.

“By working together, we can provide meaningful insights that inform science, policy, and public awareness. We thank SCCF for assisting with our research efforts,” she added.

To learn more about Roskamp’s research and how to participate in the current study, please contact 941-256-8010.