Federal Grant Award Summary

The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) awarded Johns Hopkins University a Project Grant of $783,962 (awarded July 15, 2026; completion April 30, 2031) under the Cardiovascular Diseases Research program (CFDA 93.837) to conduct research titled "Clean Air Heart 2: Targeting Indoor Air Quality to Improve Cardiovascular Health in COPD." The project addresses the critical health challenge that individuals with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) face elevated cardiovascular disease risk and mortality rates compared to the general population. The research will investigate indoor air quality (IAQ) as a modifiable intervention target, with particular focus on older adults with COPD who spend over 85% of their time indoors, examining how indoor air pollutants—including particulate matter and ultrafine particles—contribute to adverse cardiovascular outcomes through mechanisms such as impaired autonomic function, endothelial dysfunction, and increased vascular stiffness.

This project represents translational research within NHLBI's broader portfolio of cardiovascular and pulmonary disease investigations, which encompasses basic, translational, clinical, and population science across the full spectrum of cardiovascular pathology. The research deliverables will include scientific findings and evidence regarding the relationship between indoor air pollution exposure and cardiovascular health in COPD populations, with results intended to inform future intervention strategies and public health recommendations for this vulnerable population.