Rochester Housing-based Opportunities to Minimize Environmental Exposures (ROC HOME) Study
Study Overview
Between May 2021 and May 2024, the University of Rochester conducted a study (called “ROC HOME”) of contaminants (lead, allergens, and other environmental chemicals) in household dust. The ROC HOME study was funded by the US Department of Housing and Urban Development and included 84 households that participated in the City of Rochester’s Lead Hazard Control grant program.
The goal of the study was to answer the questions:
- Can Lead Hazard Control work reduce exposures to other common contaminants in the home?
- Does providing residents with information and resources help further improve and maintain home health over the longer term?
We visited each home three times and collected dust samples to measure levels of lead, mouse and cockroach allergens, and 45 environmental chemicals found in common household products, furniture, or building materials. We also asked questions about products in the home, cleaning, and other features of the home. We visited each home before, just after, and a few months after Lead Hazard Control work.
Contaminants we measured:
- Lead
- Mouse and cockroach allergens
- Environmental chemicals:
- flame retardant chemicals
- pesticides
- phthalates (chemicals used in plastics, cosmetics, and personal care and cleaning products)
- fragrance chemicals
Overall Study Results
COMING SOON – check back later for study results and information about a public meeting!
Resources
Visit our Healthy Homes Resources page for additional resources, including a PDF version of the Healthy Homes, Healthy Families guide.
The Detox Me app is a clean lifestyle guide that walks you through simple, research-based tips on how to reduce harmful chemicals where you live and work. Download Detox Me today at www.detoxmeapp.org.
6 Simple Steps to Avoid BPA and Phthalates in Food (tip sheet from Silent Spring Institute)
What You Should Know About Flame Retardant Chemicals (tip sheet from Silent Spring Institute)
Prescriptions for Prevention - Information for New York families to address common environmental health concerns. Developed by the NYS Children’s Environmental Health Centers.
Contact Us
Questions about the study or want to talk to someone about your results?
Reach out to us at 585-301-6815 or rochome@urmc.rochester.edu.
Study Partners