The National Institutes of Health (NIH) has launched a five-year, $10 million research project to look into health impacts on local communities from 2023's fiery train derailment in East Palestine, Ohio.

According to a June 19 release, the NIH plans to fund a series of studies to assess the short and long-term effects the derailment had on the health of people living near the site of the derailment, as well as to monitor the ongoing health of residents to inform medical decisions, and engage in "extensive, well-coordinated communication" to address community concerns.

“NIH is working to ensure that the people of East Palestine and the surrounding communities are listened to, cared for, and get the answers they deserve,” said NIH Director Jay Bhattacharya.

Read More: Two Years After East Palestine Disaster, Fight for Rail Safety Continues

In February of 2023, 38 cars of a Norfolk Southern train — 11 of which were carrying hazardous materials — derailed in East Palestine. Millions of pounds of dangerous chemicals spilled into the surrounding area for days following the derailment, while response crews conducted controlled burns that later led to concerns over toxic gases released into the air. East Palestine residents reported a wide range of health problems in the weeks that followed.

Norfolk Southern agreed to pay a $22 million settlement in January 2025 to resolve all remaining legal claims from the town. Prior to that, the railway also paid out $600 million for a class-action settlement in April 2024, $310 million to settle other claims and investigations in May 2024, and $780 million for environmental response efforts.