Frequently Asked Questions

What is the CAFEH study?

CAFEH is actually composed of five separate studies: the original Community Assessment of Freeway Exposure and Health Study, the Clean Air Project, Project 4 of the Boston Puerto Rican Health Study, Improving the Health of Near Highway Communities, and the more recent Visualizing Air Pollution project.

Why are these studies being done?

We are trying to learn more about how air pollution from traffic and highways affects people’s health, as well as investigate ways to mitigate exposure at both the individual and policy and practice levels.

Who is running these studies?

The study is a collaborative effort between the Tufts University and a large number of Partners.

Who is paying for the study?

Click here for our complete list of funders.

Are there federal regulations to protect people from traffic-related air pollution?

The EPA currently regulates fine particles, which are the next size up, at 2.5 micrometers, but doesn’t monitor particles in the ultrafine range.

What are Ultrafine Particles?

Ultrafine Particles (UFP) are extremely small particles less than four millionths of an inch made up of sulfate, metals and hydrocarbons.

Is living close to highways or major roadways hazardous to health?

There are many studies that shows that people living near highways and major roadways are at increased risk of many adverse health outcomes.