CAMBRIDGE, Ohio (AVC News) — Researchers are seeking Cambridge-area residents to participate in a long-term health study examining the impacts of the 2023 East Palestine train derailment.
The University of Kentucky is using Cambridge and surrounding communities as a comparison group because residents were not directly affected by the derailment but share many demographic characteristics with those living near East Palestine.
The study is open to anyone 8 years of age and older who lives in the Cambridge area. Participants are asked to complete an online survey and may also choose to take part in a free health clinic visit at the Muskingum Valley Health Center in Cambridge.
Researchers say participation is voluntary and confidential. Participants will receive compensation, obtain personal medical results from the testing, and help researchers better understand the potential long-term health effects of the derailment.
The study is led by Dr. Erin Haynes, a professor in the University of Kentucky College of Public Health. Laboratory testing will be conducted at the Cambridge Muskingum Valley Health Center, with OhioHealth processing laboratory samples.
Residents interested in participating can register online at research.uky.edu/ep.
Last Updated on July 16, 2026 by AVC News
