Va Office Of Research And Development

This study tests whether a non-invasive brain stimulation technique called rTMS can improve daily functioning in 100 veterans who have both alcohol use disorder and a history of mild traumatic brain injury. Researchers will identify a specific brain target and then stimulate it w…

This phase 2 study tests pembrolizumab (Keytruda) in 40 men with metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer that has specific genetic flaws (mismatch repair deficiency or CDK12 inactivation). The goal is to see if the drug can shrink tumors or slow the cancer. Researchers wi…

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

This study tests whether pentoxifylline, a medicine used since 1984 for leg blood vessel problems, can slow kidney damage and delay death in people with diabetic kidney disease. About 2,376 participants with type-2 diabetes and moderate-to-severe kidney decline are being followed…

This study tests whether using MRI scans to guide transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) leads to better outcomes for people with depression than the usual scalp-based method. It involves 54 participants and also offers home-based brain stimulation and therapy for those with CO…

This study tests a program called LOCK, where frontline staff in State Veterans Homes work together in short huddles to identify and reduce fall risks for residents. Over 10,000 Veterans are taking part. The goal is to lower the high rate of falls and improve overall care without…

This study compares two approaches to helping smokers quit: an opt-out method where everyone is automatically referred unless they say no, versus an opt-in method where people must actively sign up. Over 1,300 veterans at VA clinics in New York are taking part. The goal is to see…

This study tests a wireless glucose monitoring system (Glucose Telemetry System) in 218 hospitalized veterans with type 2 diabetes who are at high risk for low blood sugar (hypoglycemia). The device sends blood sugar readings from the patient's bedside to a monitor at the nursing…

This study tests a short therapy called ACT for Life for veterans hospitalized due to suicide risk. The therapy includes 3 to 6 sessions in the hospital and up to 4 follow-up sessions to help veterans build a life worth living and reduce suicide attempts. Researchers will compare…

This study tests whether a team of specialists working together can improve outcomes for frail Veterans having elective surgery. About 35,000 Veterans at three VA hospitals will be randomly assigned to usual care or a multidisciplinary board that reviews each case and makes perso…

This study tests whether levodopa, a drug used for Parkinson's, 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 checks. …

This study looks at whether game-like features 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 cooperate to increase their daily steps. The …

This study tests whether allopurinol, a common gout medication, can improve heart function in African American veterans with resistant hypertension. Over 8 weeks, 40 participants will take allopurinol to see if it helps their hearts pump better, increases exercise ability, and im…

This study tests if a mobile app called Stand Down, with or without extra support from a peer specialist over the phone, can help Veterans who drink heavily cut back. About 234 Veterans who screened positive for hazardous drinking and own a smartphone are taking part. The goal is…

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 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 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 new dry electrode headset that records brain waves (EEG) without needing a specialist to operate it. The goal is to make it easier for Veterans with epilepsy in rural areas to get this key diagnostic test. Researchers will compare the headset's performance to s…

This study explores whether a simple, non-invasive leg movement test can measure blood vessel health in older adults. Researchers will use ultrasound to track blood flow changes after a passive leg movement, comparing young healthy people and older patients undergoing heart tests…

This large study compares two common colorectal cancer screening methods: colonoscopy and annual fecal immunochemical testing (FIT). Over 50,000 veterans aged 50-75 will be randomly assigned to one of the two screenings and followed for 10 years. The goal is to see which approach…

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 tests whether a special arm brace that reads muscle signals can help stroke survivors with severe arm weakness recover better than standard rehab alone. Three veterans who had a stroke within the past 6 months will use the device during their early rehabilitation. The …

This study tests a digital program called OurRelationship for veteran couples experiencing relationship distress. The program includes online modules and coaching sessions over 6-8 weeks. Researchers want to see if it improves relationship satisfaction and reduces stress, anxiety…

This study tests whether a gentle electrical stimulation on the skin can improve sleep in veterans with PTSD. The device, similar to a TENS unit, targets two different nerve locations to see which works better. Researchers will measure sleep quality using overnight sleep tests in…

This study tests whether a type of talk therapy called Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I) can improve sleep and daily functioning in veterans who have both psychosis and insomnia. About 152 veterans are taking part. The goal is to see if better sleep leads to bette…

This study tests whether a Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) skills group, added to usual care, helps veterans at high risk for suicide better manage their emotions. About 156 veterans with a history of suicide attempts and current suicidal thoughts will take part. The goal is t…

This study tests a cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) program that treats anxiety, PTSD, and hazardous drinking all at once in veterans. The goal is to improve how participants feel and function in daily life. About 40 veterans with an anxiety disorder and risky alcohol use will …

This pilot study tests whether repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) can reduce alcohol cravings in veterans who also have mild traumatic brain injury or PTSD. Twenty veterans will receive either real or placebo rTMS over 10 sessions in two weeks. The goal is to see…

This study compares a shorter therapy focused on guilt (TrIGR) to a standard PTSD therapy (CPT) in 160 U.S. Veterans. The goal is to see if TrIGR is no less effective at reducing PTSD, depression, and guilt symptoms. Participants are randomly assigned to one of the two treatments…

This study tests whether a progressive exercise program can reduce chronic pain in veteran lung cancer survivors aged 60-80. Nine participants will do treadmill walking, resistance bands, and balance exercises. The goal is to see if exercise can be a safe alternative to opioids f…

This study tests whether home-based physical and cognitive exercises, delivered via telemedicine, can reduce chronic pain in people with Parkinson's disease. 166 Veterans will use a stationary bike and smartphone cognitive activities over three months. The goal is to find an easy…

This study tests whether wearing bright light glasses can improve sleep, thinking, and physical strength in older veterans. The glasses emit a special blue light that may help reset the body's internal clock. Researchers will measure sleep quality, balance, and coordination in 43…

This study tests a program to help Veterans who smoke and have a lung nodule quit smoking. Participants receive a letter about their nodule and the importance of quitting, plus calls from a quit line that offers resources. The goal is to see if this outreach increases use of smok…

This study tests whether partnered dance aerobic exercise can reduce 'OFF-time' (when Parkinson's medication stops working well) and improve thinking skills. Researchers will enroll 82 people with Parkinson's who experience OFF-time. Participants will take dance classes twice a w…

This study tests whether adding a muscle-stimulating device (NMES) to a standard exercise program can strengthen hip muscles and improve balance in older veterans at high risk for falls. About 81 veterans aged 55 and older will take part. The goal is to see if this approach can r…

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 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 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 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 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 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 a short online training called VA S.A.V.E. helps family and friends of veterans recognize suicide warning signs and connect them to professional help. Over 700 participants who are close to a veteran will take either the training or a general mental healt…

This study follows 817 military personnel who served in Iraq to see how war affects mental health, thinking skills, and daily life over time. Participants complete surveys and in-person tests on mood, stress, and memory. The goal is to learn how conditions like PTSD develop and c…

This study compares two methods to help primary care teams deliver better care to high-risk Veterans who often end up in the hospital. The approaches include individual coaching and a learning collaborative where teams share ideas. Researchers will track whether these methods inc…

This study looks at why Veterans with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) get tired so easily during exercise. Researchers will block nerve signals from leg muscles to see how that affects blood flow and fatigue, both before and after a regular exercise program…

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 the medication prazosin will help reduce PTSD symptoms in veterans. The goal is to personalize treatment and understand how the body handles…

This study tests whether adding a web-based training program (VA-CRAFT) to telephone coaching helps family members encourage veterans with PTSD to start mental health care. About 122 family members or partners of veterans will participate. The goal is to see if this combined appr…

This study aims to learn more about the lung health of veterans who served in places like Afghanistan and Iraq 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 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 in 13…

This study aimed to see if MRI scans could measure changes in spinal discs after physical therapy for back pain. Researchers planned to enroll Veterans with low back pain and use special MRI techniques to track disc health. The goal was to find out if these scans could predict wh…

This study looks at a brain marker to help doctors personalize care for spatial neglect, a condition where stroke survivors have trouble with 3D awareness. About 45 Veterans who had a stroke 1-8 months ago will be followed for 6 months. The goal is to see if the marker can predic…

This study tests a new behavioral therapy designed to help veterans with traumatic brain injury (TBI) improve their storytelling and everyday communication. The therapy focuses on both story content and organization. The trial includes 34 veterans and aims to see if the treatment…

This study looks at whether an EEG (a simple brain wave test) can predict which veterans with hard-to-treat depression will improve with transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS). About 266 veterans getting TMS as part of their regular care will have EEG scans before, during, and a…

This study tests a new decision aid tool that helps VA medical centers pick the best strategies to improve liver cancer screening for veterans with cirrhosis. About 8,020 veterans and clinicians will take part across multiple VA sites. The goal is to see if the tool leads to more…

This study was designed to test whether a plant-based supplement called PB125, combined with supervised exercise, could improve walking ability and reduce inflammation in veterans with peripheral artery disease (PAD). The trial was withdrawn before enrolling any participants, so …

This study looks at whether a team-based care model can improve how Gulf War Veterans with Gulf War Illness receive treatment. Many veterans are not getting the care they need or are unhappy with their current care. The study involves 281 veterans and measures changes in pain-rel…

This study tests a three-session program called Omnis Salutis that teaches veterans about Whole Health and how to communicate their health needs. It involves 238 recent veterans with PTSD, depression, anxiety, or substance use disorders. The goal is to see if the program improves…

This study aims to find out if changes in blood markers can predict whether exercise helps improve vision. Researchers will compare aerobic exercise to balance training in 14 sedentary adults aged 18 to 89 with vision disorders. The goal is to understand how exercise might protec…

This study looks at whether a structured, time-limited case management program called Critical Time Intervention (CTI) can help homeless veterans stay housed. About 153 veterans across 32 VA sites will take part. The goal is to see if CTI improves housing stability and how much i…

This study looks at whether an educational video and motivational coaching sessions can help more veterans start obesity treatments like weight management programs, medications, or surgery. About 440 veterans who are overweight or have obesity will take part. The goal is to see i…

This study was designed to find better ways to manage heart disease in veterans with severe peripheral artery disease (poor leg blood flow) who had leg surgery. It planned to track major heart problems like heart attacks or heart-related death. However, the study was withdrawn be…

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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 …