The Trump administration has initiated a federally backed East Palestine health impact research project to examine the long-term health effects of the 2023 train derailment in East Palestine, Ohio. The effort, announced by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), will allocate up to $10 million over five years to support studies on the consequences of chemical exposure from the derailment.

The East Palestine health impact research project will fund one to three awards between fiscal years 2025 and 2030. The selected studies will investigate both short- and long-term health outcomes in East Palestine and surrounding communities, focusing on public health surveillance, exposure analysis, and potential links to chronic conditions.

The derailment occurred on February 3, 2023, when a Norfolk Southern freight train carrying hazardous chemicals—including vinyl chloride, butyl acrylate, and benzene residue—crashed and ignited. In response, a controversial “vent and burn” of five vinyl chloride tank cars was conducted by state and local officials to prevent a possible explosion. The controlled release emitted over a million pounds of vinyl chloride, a known carcinogen, into the air.

According to the NIH, community members immediately reported symptoms such as headaches, eye and skin irritation, and respiratory issues. Ongoing concerns include the potential for long-term impacts on maternal and child health, immune and cardiovascular systems, and psychological well-being.

By launching this East Palestine health impact research, the administration seeks to ensure a science-based approach to understanding environmental and public health consequences, while restoring trust in federal oversight and support for affected residents. The projects are scheduled to begin in fall 2025.