FAQs
Q: What is the purpose of the CHERISH study?
A: To find out whether short-term exposure to air pollution in school playgrounds affects children’s breathing and immune system.
Q: Who is taking part?
A: 330 children in Years 3–6 from 10 London primary schools.
Q: What will my child have to do?
A: Two PE lessons (one indoors, one outdoors), plus breathing tests and a quick nasal rinse before, after, and the next day.
Q: Is it safe?
A: Yes. All procedures are non-invasive, safe, and widely used in children’s health research. No injections, medicines, or x-rays are involved.
Q: How long will it take?
A: The lessons will take a double period lesson. Each testing session lasts about 20 minutes, in school time.
Q: Will results be shared?
A: We will not give individual results to children or families. We will share updates and a summary of findings once the study is complete.
Q: Who is running the study?
A: A research team at Queen Mary University of London, in partnership with the Royal London Hospital and West Ham United Foundation.
Q: Do I have to take part?
A: No. Taking part is completely voluntary. Parents will be asked to give written consent, and children can withdraw at any time.