Micro-Nanoplastics and Forever Chemicals in Heart, Lung, and Blood Disorders Workshop

This workshop will be led by the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences and the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. It will bring together basic scientists, pediatricians, primary care physicians, maternal–fetal medicine experts, neonatologists, pulmonologists, cardiologists, nurses, pharmacists, epidemiologists, environmentalists, toxicologists, implementation scientists, data scientists, and community representatives to discuss the role of exposures to micro-nanoplastics (MNPs) and forever chemicals (perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances [PFAS]) across the lifespan in heart, lung, and blood disorders to identify critical research gaps, challenges, and opportunities. The discussion will involve consideration of leveraging data science, artificial intelligence, and multi-omics approaches in existing birth cohorts, animals, and organoids, as well as the potential for clinical trials to incorporate novel technology-based interventions (e.g., smartphone tracking apps, telehealth approaches, and exposure assessments) and implementation science. 

Event Details:

📅 Date: September 28-29, 2026

💻 Virtual Workshop: A link to join the virtual workshop will be sent closer to the date of the workshop. Registration for this workshop is free but required to attend.

Contact:

For questions or to request reasonable accommodations to participate in this event, please email Gordana Vukovic at gordana.vukovic-azaiez@nih.gov.