Va Office Of Research And Development

This study tests a program to help Veterans who smoke and have a lung nodule quit smoking. Participants receive a letter explaining why quitting is important and get calls from a quit line to connect them with resources. The goal is to see if this approach helps more Veterans use…

This study tests whether a mobile app called 'Stand Down' helps Veterans who drink too much cut back. Some participants also get phone support from a peer specialist. The goal is to see if the app alone or with support works better. About 234 Veterans from two VA hospitals are ta…

This study tests whether a special probe that detects blood flow in colon ulcers can help prevent delayed bleeding after polyp removal. It includes 180 high-risk patients who are on blood thinners or have large polyps. Half get standard care, and half get the probe-guided treatme…

This study tests whether levodopa, a drug used for Parkinson's disease, can slow the early blood vessel changes in the eyes of people with diabetes. About 244 participants with early signs of diabetic retinopathy will take the drug and be monitored with eye tests and blood sugar …

This study tests a short therapy program called ACT for Life for veterans hospitalized due to suicide risk. The goal is to reduce suicide attempts and improve daily functioning after discharge. About 278 veterans will take part, receiving either ACT for Life or a standard support…

This study tests whether gamification—using game-like elements and social rewards—can help overweight veterans with high blood pressure become more physically active. About 725 veterans will take part in a 9-month program where they either compete or collaborate with others to in…

This study tests a drug called pembrolizumab in 40 men with advanced prostate cancer that has stopped responding to hormone therapy. The drug helps the immune system attack cancer cells. The study focuses on men whose tumors have specific genetic changes. The goal is to see if th…

This study looks at whether pentoxifylline, a drug used since 1984 for leg blood vessel problems, can slow kidney damage and delay death in people with type-2 diabetes and advanced kidney disease. About 2,376 participants from 40 VA hospitals will take the drug or a placebo. The …

This study tests a revised version of motivational interviewing, a type of counseling, to see if it can lower suicide attempts and suicidal thoughts in high-risk veterans. About 470 veterans will be randomly assigned to receive this therapy or high-quality usual care. The goal is…

This study tests whether simvastatin, a drug typically used for cholesterol, can reduce the risk of serious liver problems in veterans with early-stage cirrhosis (scarred but symptom-free liver). About 142 participants will receive either simvastatin or a placebo to see if it pre…

This study tests whether a two-step drug treatment can improve bone density in people with chronic spinal cord injury (SCI) who have bone loss below the injury level. Participants receive either romosozumab (a bone-building drug) or a placebo for 12 months, followed by denosumab …

This study tests whether automatically referring smokers to quit programs (opt-out) works better than asking them to sign up (opt-in). About 1,365 veterans from two VA clinics took part. The goal is to see which approach gets more people to use quitlines or text support and event…

This study tests whether a team-based care approach can improve treatment and quality of life for Gulf War Veterans with Gulf War Illness. About 281 veterans who served in Operation Desert Shield/Storm will receive coordinated care from a specialty team. The goal is to reduce pai…

This study aimed to see if a supplement called PB125 could help veterans with peripheral artery disease (PAD) exercise more easily by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation. The plan was to test it alone and with exercise rehab in adults aged 40 and older with PAD. However, t…

This study looks at whether intermittent fasting can help overweight veterans aged 50-75 maintain weight loss after losing weight. The goal is to prevent weight regain and reduce health costs. Participants will follow a fasting plan and be monitored for changes in body weight, wa…

This study looked at whether adding a protein drink after exercise helps stroke survivors build more muscle and strength than exercise alone. About 93 people who had a stroke at least 3 months ago took part. They did resistance training and either had a protein supplement or a pl…

This study tests a wireless glucose monitoring system that sends blood sugar readings from the patient's bedside to the nursing station. The goal is to help nurses catch and prevent low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) in hospitalized veterans with type 2 diabetes who use insulin. Abou…

This study tests a new dry electrode headset that makes it easier to record brain activity (EEG) without a specialist. It aims to help Veterans with epilepsy in rural areas get diagnosed faster. The headset can be used by a nurse with minimal training, potentially lowering costs …

This study compares two common colorectal cancer screening methods: colonoscopy and an annual at-home stool test (FIT). About 50,000 veterans aged 50-75 will be randomly assigned to one of the two screenings. The goal is to see which approach better prevents deaths from colorecta…

This study looks at whether clopidogrel, a blood thinner, can prevent new silent brain infarctions (small, unnoticed strokes) in people who recently had a stroke or mini-stroke. Researchers will track 134 participants over 24 months using MRI scans and cognitive tests. The goal i…

This study is developing and testing a program that combines physical activity coaching with mental health support for veterans who have COPD, depression, or anxiety and are not very active. The goal is to see if the program is practical and helpful for improving daily function a…

This study compares a brief therapy targeting trauma-related guilt (TrIGR) to a longer standard PTSD treatment (CPT) in 160 Veterans. The goal is to see if TrIGR works just as well for reducing PTSD, depression, and guilt symptoms. Participants must have PTSD or subthreshold PTSD…

This study tests a robotic knee exoskeleton called Keeogo in 32 veterans with knee osteoarthritis. The device helps support the knee during walking, standing, and stairs. Researchers compare it to standard knee braces to see if it improves mobility, reduces pain, and is easy to u…

This study tests a special exercise program for older Veterans with dementia living in VA nursing homes. The program, called PLIÉ, combines gentle movement and mental focus to improve physical function, mood, and social engagement. Staff will be trained to lead the classes, and r…

This study looks at whether a simple home exercise routine can help veterans who have recently healed from a diabetic foot ulcer. The goal is to improve their ability to walk and move safely without causing the ulcer to come back. The study involves 26 adults aged 50 and older wi…

This study tests a new way to treat ventricular tachycardia (VT), a fast heart rhythm that can be deadly. Instead of triggering VT during the procedure, doctors will target only areas with slow electrical signals. The goal is to make ablation safer and more effective for 36 veter…

This study tests whether stimulating a nerve in the ear or neck can improve sleep quality in veterans with PTSD. About 87 veterans will try one of two stimulation locations. The goal is to find a better, non-drug way to help people fall and stay asleep.

This study looks at whether time-restricted eating (a form of intermittent fasting) is a practical way for veterans with spinal cord injury and obesity to lose weight. Fifteen veterans with paraplegia will try eating all their daily calories within a set window of time for 6 week…

This study looks at whether adding work-focused programs to standard substance use treatment helps Veterans stay sober and improve their daily lives. About 100 Veterans in early recovery will be randomly assigned to receive or not receive a referral to therapeutic work activities…

This study tests a treatment called repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS) to reduce alcohol cravings in veterans who also have mild traumatic brain injury or PTSD. Twenty veterans will take part; half will get real rTMS and half a placebo, with 10 sessions over two …

This study looks at whether partnered dance aerobic exercise can improve movement and thinking in people with Parkinson's disease. About 82 participants will take dance classes twice a week. Researchers will measure changes in symptoms, thinking skills, and brain iron levels to s…

This study looks at whether regular exercise can help Veterans with a specific type of heart failure (called HFpEF) feel less tired and be more active. Researchers want to understand how signals from the leg muscles affect blood flow and exercise ability. 45 Veterans will take pa…

This study tests whether virtual health coaching from fellow Veterans can improve physical and mental quality of life for Veterans with multiple chronic conditions. About 298 participants will be matched with a Veteran peer coach for a year. The goal is to see if this support hel…

This study looks at whether a daily vitamin B3 supplement called nicotinamide riboside can improve muscle strength, walking speed, and endurance in older veterans aged 65-85. Participants take the supplement or a placebo for a period and then perform exercise tests and strength m…

This study tests whether a device that reads muscle signals can help stroke survivors with severe arm weakness improve their movement. Three veterans who had a stroke within the past 6 months will use the device during rehab. The goal is to see if this approach can boost recovery…

This study aims to improve how doctors target brain stimulation for depression. Currently, many patients don't respond because the stimulation coil is placed using scalp landmarks, which can miss the correct brain area. The researchers will compare this standard method with MRI-g…

This study looks at whether a progressive exercise program can reduce long-term nerve pain in veterans who have had lung cancer. Nine veterans aged 60-80 who finished cancer treatment at least six months ago will take part. The goal is to see if exercise can ease pain and improve…

This study tests whether Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I) can improve sleep and daily functioning in 152 veterans who have both psychosis and insomnia. Participants receive CBT-I while continuing their usual mental health care. The goal is to see if better sleep …

This study was designed to create a self-management program for veterans with AIS D spinal cord injury, the mildest form. The goal was to improve their psychological well-being and quality of life. However, the study was withdrawn before any participants were enrolled.

This study tests whether a stellate ganglion block—a numbing injection in the neck—can quickly reduce PTSD symptoms in veterans. About 410 veterans who still have PTSD after trying standard treatments will receive either the real injection or a sham (fake) one. Researchers will m…

This study tests whether bright light therapy can improve sleep, thinking, and physical strength in older veterans. About 43 veterans aged 65 and older with sleep problems will use a special light at home. The goal is to see if this simple treatment can reduce frailty and help th…

This study tests whether an online program called OurRelationship can help veteran couples who are struggling with relationship distress. About 100 couples will use the program, which includes coaching and exercises to improve communication and satisfaction. The goal is to see if…

This study tests whether doing physical and cognitive exercises at home, guided by telemedicine, can reduce chronic pain in people with Parkinson's disease. 166 Veterans with Parkinson's and chronic pain will participate. The goal is to find an easy, affordable way to manage pain…

This study tests whether adding a gentle electrical pulse to hip muscles during exercise can help older veterans at risk of falls improve their balance and strength. About 81 veterans aged 55 and older will take part. The goal is to see if this approach reduces fall risk better t…

This study tests a cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) program that treats anxiety, PTSD, and hazardous drinking all at once in 40 veterans. The goal is to improve how well participants function in daily life and reduce alcohol-related problems. The therapy is delivered weekly and…

This study tests a 18-month remote walking program for veterans with lower-limb amputation. The goal is to help them stay active and increase daily steps through coaching, peer support, and self-management. About 95 veterans will participate, and their step counts will be tracked…

This study tests whether a supervised exercise program delivered via telehealth can improve walking ability and quality of life for 73 veterans with peripheral artery disease (PAD). Participants will do walking tests and answer questionnaires at the start and after 3 months. The …

This study tests whether allopurinol, a common gout medication, can improve heart function, exercise ability, and quality of life in African American Veterans with resistant hypertension. About 40 participants will take allopurinol for 8 weeks to see if it helps their hearts pump…

This study tests whether adding a Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) skills group to usual care helps veterans who are at high risk for suicide. The group focuses on teaching skills to manage intense emotions, which is a key risk factor. About 156 veterans will take part, and the…

This study looks at ways to improve primary care for Veterans who are at high risk of being hospitalized. Researchers are testing new care practices to help care teams provide more personalized and effective care. The goal is to reduce unnecessary hospital stays and improve healt…

This study looks at whether changes in blood markers can predict if exercise helps improve vision. Fourteen sedentary adults with vision disorders will do either balance training or aerobic exercise for 12 weeks. Researchers will measure changes in eyesight and compare them to bl…

This study created a large collection of health information and blood samples from 1,275 Veterans who served during the 1990-1991 Gulf War. Researchers will use this data to study long-term health issues. The project also gathered feedback from Veterans to improve how future stud…

This study looks at how alcohol use disorder and mild traumatic brain injury together affect the brain in veterans. The goal is to find a specific brain target that can be stimulated with a non-invasive technique called rTMS to improve daily functioning. About 100 veterans will t…

This study was designed to find better ways to manage heart disease in veterans who have severe blockages in their leg arteries and recently had leg surgery. The goal was to reduce the risk of heart attacks and death, which is very high in this group. However, the study was withd…

This study looks at whether a simple EEG brain scan can predict which veterans with treatment-resistant depression will benefit from transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS). About 266 veterans getting TMS through the VA will have up to 7 EEG scans during their treatment. The goal…

This study looks at whether a smartphone-based program can help veterans with depression begin and continue mental health treatment. Researchers will analyze medical records to find out who struggles to engage in care, then test an eHealth tool that lets veterans track their mood…

This study interviews 14 veterans who served in combat to create a group therapy program for moral injury—the lasting distress from events that violated their values. The goal is to help them reintegrate into civilian life and restore functioning. The research focuses on developi…

This study tests a new type of therapy designed to help veterans with traumatic brain injury (TBI) improve their ability to tell stories and have meaningful conversations. The therapy focuses on both the content and organization of stories. The study includes 34 veterans and aims…

This study tests a simple program called LOCK to help staff in State Veterans Homes work together to prevent falls. Over 10,000 Veterans will take part. The program uses short team huddles to spot risks and share solutions. The goal is to make care safer and reduce injuries.

This study was designed to see if MRI scans can detect changes in the spinal discs after physical therapy for back pain. Researchers planned to enroll Veterans with low back pain and measure disc health and pain levels before and after six weeks of therapy. The goal was to find o…

This study looks at how to help VA medical centers offer virtual programs that prevent heart disease, diabetes, and depression in women Veterans. Researchers are testing two different support strategies at 20 VA sites to see which works better. The study does not involve patients…

This study looks at 65 veterans with PTSD who use cannabis frequently. Researchers want to see if reducing cannabis use improves their daily functioning, mental health, and quality of life. No treatment or drug is given—participants simply report their cannabis use and well-being…

This study looks at two different methods to help VA clinics adopt a team-based depression care service for veterans living with HIV. The service has been shown to work well and save money, but no VA clinics currently use it. Researchers will compare the two approaches to see whi…

This study explores whether moving a person's leg for them (passive limb movement) can be used as a simple, non-invasive test to check blood vessel health. Researchers will measure blood flow changes in the leg artery using ultrasound in both young and older adults, including tho…

This study looks at a new way to personalize care for stroke survivors who have spatial neglect—a condition that affects their ability to perceive and interact with the space around them. Researchers will track 45 veterans over 6 months to see if a biomarker can predict recovery …

This study tests a program called VA S.A.V.E., which teaches family members and friends of Veterans how to recognize signs of suicide risk and guide them to professional help. About 700 participants who have regular contact with a Veteran will take the training, and researchers w…

This study looks at whether having a team of specialists—including surgeons, anesthesiologists, geriatricians, and others—work together to plan care can help frail veterans who need elective surgery. About 35,000 veterans at three VA hospitals will take part. The goal is to see i…

This study tests whether a program that educates and supports doctors can help them follow national guidelines for prostate cancer imaging. About 58 VA doctors and staff took part. The goal is to reduce inappropriate scans for low-risk patients and ensure appropriate scans for hi…

This study tests a special education program for veterans with advanced chronic kidney disease. The goal is to help them understand their condition and choose the best type of dialysis, especially home dialysis. About 656 veterans will take part to see if this program improves th…

This study aims to learn more about the lung health of veterans who served in places like Iraq and Afghanistan after 9/11. Researchers will measure lung function in 6,200 veterans using breathing tests. The goal is to understand how deployment may affect breathing over time.

This study looks at whether medical-legal partnerships—where lawyers work closely with healthcare providers—can help veterans with housing problems avoid eviction and homelessness better than standard legal services alone. About 300 veterans will be randomly assigned to either th…

This study looks at whether adding an online program (VA-CRAFT) to phone coaching can help family members persuade veterans with PTSD to start mental health care. About 122 family members or partners of veterans will take part. The goal is to see if this combined approach gets mo…

This study tests a program called TOTAL that uses an educational video and motivational coaching sessions over video calls to help veterans with obesity start proven treatments like weight management classes, medications, or surgery. The goal is to see if this approach increases …

This study tests a new decision aid tool that helps VA medical centers choose the best strategies to improve liver cancer screening for patients with cirrhosis. About 8,020 veterans and VA staff will take part. The goal is to see if the tool helps more patients get the right scre…

This study helps veterans who have opioid use problems find and keep meaningful jobs. Researchers want to see if employment helps them stay on medications, improve mental health, and feel part of society. About 123 veterans who are unemployed or underemployed will take part.

This study aimed to help people with upper limb amputations feel their prosthetic hand as part of their own body. Researchers planned to use nerve stimulation to create touch and position sensations. The study was withdrawn before any participants were enrolled, so no results are…

This study looks at whether a structured, time-limited case management approach called Critical Time Intervention (CTI) helps homeless veterans stay housed longer. About 153 veterans across 32 VA programs will take part. Researchers will measure how well programs stick to CTI and…

This study looks at whether trained peer specialists can help homeless veterans who often go to the hospital or emergency room. About 177 veterans will receive Whole Health Coaching to see if it reduces their need for acute care. The goal is to improve their health and cut health…

This study looks at whether a 20-week program called AgeWISE-AP can help veterans over 60 improve their brain health. The program provides education and personalized planning. Researchers will measure changes in physical activity, memory, mood, sleep, and overall well-being using…

This study follows 817 military personnel who served in Iraq to learn about the long-term effects of war on mental health, thinking skills, and daily life. Participants complete surveys and phone interviews about mood, stress, and head injuries, and some also do in-person thinkin…

This study tests a three-session program called Omnis Salutis (OS) that teaches Veterans about Whole Health and how to communicate their health goals to doctors and loved ones. The goal is to see if OS helps Veterans with PTSD, depression, anxiety, or substance use improve their …

This study tests a device that combines a motorized knee brace with muscle stimulation to help people who have had a stroke walk more easily. Five veterans with leg weakness and a stiff-legged walk will try the device in a lab. The goal is to see if the device can improve walking…

This study looks at whether two easy tests—checking how blood pressure changes when standing and how the eye reacts to light—can predict if a person with PTSD will respond well to the medication prazosin. The goal is to personalize PTSD treatment by identifying who is most likely…

This study looks at trauma-exposed veterans who have a strong need for perfection and control, known as overcontrol. Researchers want to see if brain scans and online surveys can help measure social functioning and mental health. The goal is to prepare for future treatments that …