VA Research News Briefs

• Read original article here

 VA Research News Briefs
Opioid misuse common in older adults
Photo: ©iStock/Aleksandr_Gromov
(06/23/2020)
Opioid misuse is common in older adults, found a study by Providence VA researchers and colleagues. Most research on opioid misuse focuses on younger people. The researchers studied Medicare data on more than 7 million patients over the age of 65 to find opioid use disorder rates. In the year studied, 1% of patients had opioid use disorder documented on a hospital claim. Among this group, 17% had opioid use disorder as the primary diagnosis, and 83% had it as a secondary diagnosis. One in five opioid-related hospitalizations were for overdose. Given the high prevalence, more research is needed on the needs of older adults with opioid use disorder, say the researchers. ( Journal of the American Medical Directors Association , April 2020)
Exercise training reduces protein linked to muscle pain
Photo: ©iStock/Mary Swift
(06/23/2020)
A study by Iowa City VA researchers explored the biological process behind muscle pain caused by exercise. Pain can often limit how much exercise people can engage in. Researchers found that mice undergoing high-intensity interval training had less immediate pain after exercise, based on brain scans. These mice had lower levels of proteins called acid-sensing ion channels (ASICs) in neuron cells. The researchers also found that mice that genetically did not produce the ASIC protein did not experience immediate exercise-induced muscle pain. The results suggest that pain after exercise is linked to ASICs. They also suggest that high-intensity exercise training reduces ASIC production, thereby reducing muscle fatigue. Low-intensity exercise was not linked to less ASIC. The findings help explain why training increases exercise capacity, according to the researchers. ( Journal of Applied Physiology , May 28, 2020)
Less sleep time may predict higher chance of dementia
Photo for illustrative purposes only. ©iStock/amenic181
(06/23/2020)
Total sleep time may be a useful biomarker of dementia, according to a Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center study. Researchers studied data from nearly 70,000 sleep studies conducted over a 20-year period in VA. They found that lower total sleep time predicted greater odds of dementia diagnosis in patients. The study suggests that less than 360 minutes (six hours) per night is a good cut-off to predict greater odds of dementia. This cut-off could help clinicians assess a patient’s risk of dementia, say the researchers. ( Sleep , May 27, 2020)
Mental health treatment improves lung cancer outcomes
Photo: ©iStock/Chinnapong
(06/16/2020)
Treatment for mental health disorders led to better outcomes in patients with lung cancer, found a study by San Francisco VA researchers and colleagues. Researchers looked at data on more than 55,000 Veterans diagnosed with non-small cell lung cancer. About 18,000 had pre-existing mental health disorders. Among this group, those in mental health treatment programs were less likely to be diagnosed at a later stage of their cancer and were more likely to receive stage-appropriate cancer treatment, compared to those not in mental health treatment. They were also less likely to die from lung cancer or any other cause during the study period. Participation in housing and employment support programs was also linked to similar cancer outcome improvements. The results show that investing in mental health and social needs can improve other aspects of health such as cancer, say the researchers. ( JAMA Oncology , June 4, 2020)
Prolonged exposure therapy reduces trauma-related guilt
Photo: ©iStock/kieferpix
(06/16/2020)
Prolonged exposure therapy for PTSD and substance use disorder reduces feelings of guilt, according to a VA study. PTSD is often accompanied by trauma-related guilt, which is usually related to negative views of one’s actions or inactions during a traumatic event. Researchers assessed guilt in more than 100 Veterans with both PTSD and SUD. Half received prolonged exposure therapy designed to treat both conditions together. The rest received therapy focusing on coping skills. The prolonged exposure group reported significantly lower guilt over time, compared to the other group. The results show that exposure-based treatment for both PTSD and SUD is more effective at reducing guilt than non-exposure treatment, conclude the researchers. ( Journal of Traumatic Stress , June 10, 2020)
Patient-aligned care teams help keep patients in VA care
Photo for illustrative purposes only. ©iStock/FatCamera
(06/16/2020)
Patient-aligned care teams (PACTs) positively affect patient use of VA health care, found a study of data on 1.5 million patients. PACTs are a team-based approach to care that involves the patient in decision-making. The model focuses on easy access to care, care coordination, better communication, and self-management. Researchers used a quality measure of how well PACTs had been implemented at each VA primary care practice. Patient attrition was lower in practices with higher PACT implementation scores, compared to those with worse implementation. Out of the 1.5 million patients, 4.4% dropped out of care during a two-year follow-up. At the lowest-scoring PACT locations, this rate was 4.8%. At the highest-scoring locations, the attrition rate was 4.0%. The results show that better PACT implementation positively affects patients’ decisions to stay in VA care. ( Healthcare , June 2020)
Psychotic symptoms linked to solitary confinement in incarcerated individuals
Photo: ©iStock/Rattankun Thongbun
(06/03/2020)
Incarcerated people with psychotic symptoms are more likely to be placed in solitary confinement, found a Maryland VA researcher and colleague. People with psychiatric disorders are disproportionately represented in the U.S. prison system. The researchers surveyed 176 previously incarcerated people. Those with a schizophrenia diagnosis or psychotic symptoms were more than twice as likely to have been placed in solitary confinement, compared to those without psychiatric conditions. More research is needed to determine whether prisoners are placed in solitary confinement based solely on behaviors related to psychiatric illness, according to the researchers. Such action could violate the Americans with Disabilities Act, they say. ( Psychiatry Research , May 21, 2020)
Secure messaging from clinicians improves diabetes patient self-management
Photo: ©iStock/fizkes
(06/03/2020)
Diabetes patients who received online messaging support from their clinicians better self-managed their care, in a study by researchers at the Edith Nourse Rogers Memorial Veterans Hospital in Massachusetts.  Secure messaging over the internet allows doctors and patients to communicate in between visits. The study included more than 400 Veterans with diabetes who used VA’s My HealtheVet online patient portal. Patients who received at least one proactive message about their care were more likely to engage in better diabetes self-management, compared to patients who were not messaged. They also reported a higher sense of self-confidence. Proactive communication from clinical teams can foster a patient’s sense of autonomy and encourage better self-care, conclude the researchers. ( Journal of General Internal Medicine , May 21, 2020)
Blood thinner linked to higher fracture risk
Photo: ©iStock/Hailshadow
(06/03/2020)
Atrial fibrillation patients taking the blood thinner warfarin had a higher risk of fractures than patients taking other blood-thinning drugs, in a study by Minneapolis VA researchers and colleagues. Atrial fibrillation is an irregular heart rate that causes poor blood flow. Patients with the condition are often prescribed blood thinners (anticoagulants) to prevent stroke and other problems. Some evidence has shown that the common anticoagulant warfarin may be linked to poor bone health. The researchers looked at data on nearly 170,000 patients with atrial fibrillation. They found that patients taking warfarin were more likely to have bone fractures, compared to those taking newer oral anticoagulants. This difference was especially high in patients with osteoporosis. The drug apixaban had the lowest fracture risk. The findings suggest that caution should be used when prescribing warfarin to patients with a high risk of fracture, say the researchers. ( JAMA Internal Medicine , February 2020)
Blood pressure variability linked to heart failure risk
Photo: ©iStock/LumiNola
(05/28/2020)
Blood pressure variability is associated with heart failure risk in people with diabetes, according to a study by VA researchers. Blood pressure variability is known to be a risk factor for cardiovascular disease. But its relationship with heart failure is less clear. The study found that variability in both systolic and diastolic blood pressure was connected to increased risk of heart failure. Variability increased the risk independently of elevated average blood pressure. The effects of blood pressure variability appear to be related to dips in pressure, not with elevations. The results will help optimize blood pressure treatment in patients with diabetes, according to the researchers. ( Diabetes Care , April 23, 2020)
Parkinson’s patients with sleep disorder have poorer mental function
Photo for illustrative purposes only. ©iStock/adamkaz
(05/28/2020)
Disordered sleep was linked to poorer mental function in patients with Parkinson’s disease, found a VA San Diego study. Many patients with Parkinson’s disease are affected by rapid eye movement sleep behavior disorder. Researchers compared cognitive performance between Parkinson’s patients with and without the sleep disorder. Those with disordered sleep had poorer executive functioning and learning performance. They also had poorer neuropsychological functioning across all cognitive domains. Those with sleep disorder also showed poorer medication management skills. The results underscore the importance of assessing for sleep disorder in patients with Parkinson’s disease, say the researchers. ( Journal of the International Neuropsychological Society , May 7, 2020)
HIV linked to lung impairment
Photo: ©iStock/yodiyim
(05/28/2020)
HIV-positive men were at increased risk of lung impairment, found a study including a Minneapolis VA researcher. Previous studies have suggested that HIV may increase the risk of chronic lung diseases. The researchers compared several measures of lung function in men with and without HIV infection. Those with HIV had worse defusing capacity, the ability of oxygen to pass from the lungs into the blood. Worse defusing function has been linked to worse quality of life, worse exercise capacity, and higher risk of respiratory disease. HIV status did not affect forced expiratory volume, a measure of how much air can be exhaled during a forced breath. The impairment of the gas defusing capacity may be behind a higher risk of respiratory diseases in men with HIV, according to the researchers. ( AIDS , April 13, 2020)
PTSD suppresses the brain’s immune system
Photo: iStock/JohnnyGreig
(05/21/2020)
A study by VA Connecticut and Yale University researchers showed how PTSD is linked with neuroimmune suppression. The researchers compared brain scans of 23 patients with PTSD and 26 without. They found that patients with lower levels of a protein TSPO in the prefrontal-limbic part of the brain had worse PTSD symptom severity. This protein is a biomarker for activation of microglial cells, the brain’s first form of immune defense. Those with PTSD had significantly lower TSPO levels than those without PTSD. Those with lower TSPO concentration also had higher levels of C-reactive protein, a protein that is increased when inflammation is present in the body. The findings suggest that PTSD hinders the function of the immune system in the brain, according to the researchers. ( Nature Communications , May 12, 2020)
Veterans from lower ranks less likely to use mental health care
Photo: iStock/SDI Productions
(05/21/2020)
Veterans from lower ranks were less likely to use VA mental health care, found a VA study. Researchers analyzed data on almost 10,000 post-9/11 Veterans. Of those, 34% had at least one mental health condition. Veterans from junior enlisted ranks were significantly less likely than those from higher ranks to use mental health programs and services. Use of these services was similar between male and female Veterans. The study also showed more similarities than differences in mental health care use between Veterans of different racial/ethnic backgrounds. Veterans exposed to combat, with a medical discharge, or with ongoing medical conditions were much more likely to use VA health care services. The results highlight the need to encourage Veterans from lower ranks to seek mental health services, say the researchers. ( Psychiatric Services , May 12, 2020)
Adding social workers to primary care teams reduces emergency room visits
Photo: iStock/peakSTOCK
(05/21/2020)
Including social workers on VA primary care teams reduced emergency room visits, found a study led by Providence VA Medical Center researchers. The study looked at the effects of adding social workers to rural primary care teams in VA facilities. Results showed that, among high-risk patients, introducing a social worker decreased emergency department visits by 3%. Acute hospital admissions declined by 4.4%. Among all Veterans receiving care at these facilities, social work encounters increased by 33% after social workers were integrated into primary care teams. The results show that including social workers in care is a key strategy to improve care coordination for high-risk patients, say the researchers. ( Health Affairs , April 2020)
PTSD may increase risk of autoimmune diseases
Photo: iStock/KenTannenbaum
(05/13/2020)
Service members with PTSD may have a higher risk of autoimmune diseases, found a VA-funded study of active duty personnel. As part of the Millennium Cohort Study, researchers looked at data on more than 120,000 service members. They found that those with a history of PTSD had a 58% higher chance of having an autoimmune disease. Autoimmune diseases included rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, inflammatory bowel diseases, and multiple sclerosis. The connection between PTSD and autoimmune diseases was independent of combat experience or prior trauma. The results add to growing evidence that PTSD is a risk factor for autoimmune disease, say the researchers. ( BMC Psychiatry , Jan. 15, 2020)
PTSD and alcohol use disorder feed into each other
Photo: iStock/axelbueckert
(05/13/2020)
PTSD and alcohol use disorder can feed into one another and make both worse, according to a VA San Diego study. PTSD and alcohol use disorder often occur together. Researchers studied symptoms in 107 Veterans being treated for PTSD and alcohol use disorder. They found that greater PTSD symptom severity was linked with greater future alcohol use. Likewise, greater alcohol use was linked with greater future PTSD symptom severity. The effect of PTSD on drinking was higher than the other way around. The findings support the idea of mutual maintenance between PTSD and alcohol use. Integrated treatments for both PTSD and alcohol use may be better than expecting patients to reduce alcohol use before beginning trauma-focused treatment, say the researchers. ( Psychology of Addictive Behavior , Feb. 27, 2020)
Migraine genetically linked to other health conditions
Photo: iStock/g-stockstudio
(05/13/2020)
Migraine headaches have a shared genetic basis with multiple other conditions, found a study including several VA researchers. The study used data from the UK Biobank, a large repository of genetic information. Researchers found that people with migraine had similar gene variants as those with many other conditions, including heart disease, high cholesterol, and autoimmune diseases. The results confirm past studies suggesting a connection between these conditions. The researchers also identified a genetic similarity between migraine and Type 2 diabetes risk, a connection that had not been identified previously. Notably, the data showed that blood pressure directly contributes to migraine, suggesting that high blood pressure may partially cause migraines in addition to sharing genetic risk factors. ( International Journal of Epidemiology , April 19, 2020)
Elective percutaneous coronary interventions in VA largely appropriate
Photo: iStock/adventtr
(05/06/2020)
Most procedures for stable coronary artery disease in VA medical centers were appropriate, found a study by Rocky Mountain Regional VA and VA Puget Sound researchers. Percutaneous coronary interventions involve treating narrowing arteries with angioplasty or stenting. In patients with stable coronary artery disease, these interventions can relieve symptoms but do not increase survival. They also may cause complications such as bleeding, kidney injury, stroke, or death. Researchers looked at data on these procedures in 59 VA medical centers over a two-year period. They found that 30% of elective procedures were classified as appropriate, and 60% as “may be appropriate.” About 10% were deemed “rarely appropriate.” While most procedures were appropriate or possibly appropriate, efforts to improve patient selection are still needed, according to the researchers. ( JAMA Network Open , April 1, 2020)
Many Veterans prefer virtual health care visits
Photo: iStock/SDI Productions
(05/06/2020)
Many patients using VA-issued tablets preferred video health care to in-person care, found a VA Palo Alto study. In 2016, VA began issuing tablets to Veterans to allow them to receive care virtually. The program aimed to improve care access for Veterans who face barriers such as transportation issues. Researchers surveyed about 600 tablet recipients about their experiences with telehealth. Satisfaction with the tablet program was high. Almost a third of patients said they preferred virtual care to in-person visits, while 36% said care was “about the same.” Patients were more likely to prefer video visits if they felt uncomfortable in a VA setting, had communicated well with their doctor, had substance use disorder, or lived in a place with better broadband coverage. Patients with more chronic conditions were less likely to prefer video visits. The results will help identify which patients would benefit from virtual care, say the researchers. ( Journal of Medical Internet Research , April 15, 2020)
Survey: Majority of women Veterans feel welcome at VA
Photo: iStock/monkeybusinessimages
(05/06/2020)
Researchers surveyed women Veterans at 26 VA locations. Out of more than 1,000 women, 85% said they felt welcome at VA. Not quite a third of the women surveyed answered an open-ended prompt about their experience with VA. Of those, 26% told of feeling uncomfortable or being harassed at a VA facility. Suggestions to improve VA included providing additional resources and clinical services for women Veterans, changing male Veterans’ behavior toward women, and making treatment of women and men the same. Although most women Veterans felt welcome in VA, opportunity exists to make them more comfortable and improve their experience in VA, say the researchers. ( Women’s Health Issues , April 24, 2020)
High-dose folic acid may improve diabetic foot ulcer healing
Photo: iStock/MangTeng
(04/29/2020)
High-dose folic acid may improve diabetic foot ulcer healing, found a Hunter Holmes McGuire VA Medical Center study. Researchers reviewed the charts of 29 Veteran patients with chronic, non-healing diabetic foot ulcers who were treated with high-dose folic acid. Of the study group, 90% saw complete wound closure after folic acid treatment. The researchers also compared the wound healing rate of four subjects with patients who had not received high-dose folic acid. Over a four-week period, the patients treated with folic acid showed significant improvements, compared with the non-treated group. The researchers recommend larger randomized clinical trials to establish how effective high-dose folic acid is at treating diabetic foot ulcers. ( Wound Repair and Regeneration , March 5, 2020)
Shifting risk factors for cirrhosis
Photo: iStock/Rasi Bhadramani
(04/29/2020)
The most common risk factors for cirrhosis may have shifted, found a study by Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center researchers. Previous studies identified active viral infection with hepatitis B or C as the most common risk factors for cirrhosis and liver cancer. In this study, researchers looked at more than 1,000 patients with cirrhosis. They found that the most common cirrhosis and liver cancer risk factors had shifted to resolved hepatitis C and fatty liver disease. They also found racial and ethnic differences in risk factors. Hispanic patients with cirrhosis were more likely to have obesity, diabetes, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, compared with other groups. These risk factors were less common in black patients. Black patients had higher rates of alcoholic liver disease and heavy alcohol drinking than other groups. The results suggest that minorities may still face a higher burden of chronic liver disease, say the researchers, and that multiple risk factors should be examined to monitor for cirrhosis. ( Gastroenterology , March 29, 2020)
High-dose flu vaccine may improve response in rheumatoid arthritis patients
Photo: iStock/SDI Productions
(04/29/2020)
High-dose flu vaccines posed no risk and offered some benefits to patients with rheumatoid arthritis, found an Iowa City VA study. People with rheumatoid arthritis taking arthritis medications are at risk for severe cases of the flu and may not respond well to the flu vaccine. Rheumatoid arthritis patients were given either a standard or high dose of the flu vaccine. High-dose patients had a higher antibody response, although the difference was small. Neither group showed any safety concerns. Although larger studies are needed, high-dose flu vaccines may be a good option for rheumatoid arthritis patients considering their increased flu risk, say the researchers. ( Vaccine , April 12, 2020)
PTSD increases women Veterans’ risk of heart disease
Photo for illustrative purposes only. ©iStock/patrickheagney
(04/23/2020)
PTSD significantly increased the risk of ischemic heart disease in woman Veterans, found a VA Greater Los Angeles Health Care System study. In ischemic heart disease, the heart does not get enough blood because of plaque in the arteries. It is the most common type of heart disease. Researchers looked at data on women Veterans visiting VA medical centers between 2000 and 2017. Out of more than 800,000 women, about 18% had PTSD. These women had significantly higher risk for ischemic heart disease, compared with women without PTSD. This risk was independent of age, obesity, alcohol use, and other factors related to heart disease. Previous research has linked PTSD with ischemic heart disease in men, but studies in women have been limited. The researchers recommend early and routine screening for ischemic heart disease in women Veterans with PTSD. ( Journal of the American College of Cardiology , March 2020)
Opioid agonist therapy infrequent in VA
Photo: ©iStock/Hailshadow
(04/23/2020)
Opioid agonist therapy is delivered infrequently in VA hospitals, found a study by VA Portland researchers and colleagues. Opioid agonists are medications, such as methadone and buprenorphine, that help prevent withdrawal from and cravings for opioids. Researchers looked at data on more than 12,000 patients with opioid use disorder who were hospitalized at a VA facility. Only 15% received opioid agonists, mostly to help with withdrawal symptoms. Just 2% began agonist treatment after discharge. Treatment delivery frequency varied across the health system. The results show that policy and educational steps should be taken to promote hospital-based opioid agonist therapy, say the researchers. ( Journal of General Internal Medicine , April 14, 2020)
Brain activity relation to emotions could predict PTSD treatment response
Photo: ©iStock/alvarez
(04/23/2020)
How well patients respond to PTSD treatment may be linked to how regions of the brain activate and connect with other regions, according to a VA study. Researchers used MRI to study brain signals in Veterans with PTSD. Patients were treated with either prolonged exposure therapy, medication, or both and compared to a control group. Results showed that patients with greater activation in brain regions related to emotional processing and modulation before treatment responded better to all types of treatment. Greater connectivity between brain regions involved in attention and emotional processing also positively affected PTSD improvement. The findings suggest that measuring how these brain regions function could help predict PTSD treatment response, according to the researchers. ( Depression and Anxiety , April 19, 2020)
Editorial: Pandemic could increase suicide risk
Photo for illustrative purposes only. ©iStock/Marjan_Apostolovic
(04/16/2020)
An editorial by VA Puget Sound psychologists warns that COVID-19 may lead to increased risk of suicide. The “secondary consequences” of social distancing could put people at higher risk. These consequences include economic stress, social isolation, decreased community support, and barriers to mental health treatment. Increased national anxiety linked to 24/7 news coverage and a surge in U.S. gun sales could also raise the suicide risk for some, say the researchers. The editorial suggests several steps to improve suicide prevention during the crisis. Staying socially connected by telephone and video can help ease feelings of isolation. Efforts to increased access to mental health care, especially using telemedicine, could give at-risk patients the support they need. The authors also offer an optimistic view of one possible result of the pandemic. Suicide rates have historically declined after national disasters and tragedies such as the 9-11 terrorist attacks. It is possible that pulling together when facing trying times can strengthen social connectedness and make people feel that life is more precious, say the researchers. ( JAMA Psychiatry , April 10, 2020)
Prolonged exposure therapy could improve sexual desire problems
Photo: ©iStock/vadimguzhva
(04/16/2020)
Prolonged exposure therapy for PTSD could improve sexual desire problems, found a study that included an Atlanta VA researcher. People with PTSD often report difficulties with sexual functioning, including sexual desire. The researchers assessed nearly 200 Veterans who were undergoing prolonged exposure therapy for PTSD. They found that patients who saw PTSD symptom improvement also experienced improved sexual desire. Those who did not respond to the treatment did not see sexual desire improvements. Patients with severe depression at the start of treatment showed less sexual desire improvement than patients without depression, regardless of PTSD improvement. The results suggest that prolonged exposure could help with PTSD-related sexual desire problems. ( Psychiatry , April 1, 2020)
Spiritual difficulties may increase suicidal thoughts
Photo for illustrative purposes only. ©iStock/PeopleImages
(04/16/2020)
Spiritual difficulties were linked with increased suicidal thoughts, in a Durham VA study. Researchers collected data on religion and spirituality for a thousand Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans. They found that perceived lack of control and problems with self-forgiveness increased the risk of suicidal thoughts. Perceived punishment by God and a lack of meaning or purpose significantly increased the risk of suicide attempts. The results suggest that screening for spiritual difficulties, possibly in collaboration with chaplains, could help detect Veteran suicide risk, according to the researchers. ( Depression and Anxiety , April 5, 2020)
Study: Patient outcomes similar with nurse practitioners or physicians
Photo for illustrative purposes only. ©iStock/GlobalStock
(04/10/2020)
VA patients with a nurse practitioner as their primary care provider (PCP) had similar health outcomes as those with a medical doctor as the PCP, found a VA Puget Sound study. Researchers looked at data on over 800,000 VA patients who had originally been assigned a doctor as their PCP. Each patient’s PCP had left VA practice, meaning the patient was then reassigned to either a doctor or nurse practitioner. The researchers found little difference between the two groups for clinical outcomes, costs, and receipt of diagnostic tests. Patients reassigned to a nurse practitioner were less likely to use primary or specialty care services, but still had similar health results. The study confirms that nurse practitioners offer a cost-effective way to address anticipated shortages of primary care physicians, say the researchers. ( Health Services Research , April 2020)
Mind-body skills intervention improves PTSD symptoms
Photo: ©iStock/PeopleImages
(04/10/2020)
A mind-body skills group significantly improved patients’ PTSD symptoms, in a study at the Southeast Louisiana VA. A group of 108 Veterans with PTSD received 10 weeks of either the mind-body skills intervention along with standard treatment, or standard treatment only. The mind-body program included meditation, guided imagery, biofeedback, and group support. Standard treatment consisted of trauma-focused psychotherapy. Patients in the mind-body group had significantly better PTSD improvement compared with the control group. They saw improvements in hyperarousal and avoidance that lasted at least two months after treatment, as well as decreased anger and sleep disturbances. The findings show that the mind-body skills intervention offers promise for relieving PTSD symptoms, according to the researchers. ( Psychological Trauma , March 5, 2020)
Stem cells accelerate diabetic wound healing in mouse model
Photo: ©iStock/dra_schwartz
(04/10/2020)
Stem cells could accelerate diabetic wound healing, found a study that included a VA Connecticut researcher. The team embedded human smooth muscle cells derived from stem cells into a 3-D collagen scaffold. They then placed the scaffold into diabetic wounds on mice. The stem-cell implantation increased concentrations of biological products involved in wound healing. The stem cells accelerated the healing process, compared to control wounds not treated with the scaffold. While the technique has to be studied further, say the researchers, it is a promising potential therapy for diabetic wounds. ( Regenerative Medicine , March 31, 2020)
Patient hassles lead to delayed or skipped care
Photo for illustrative purposes only. ©iStock/DjelicS
(04/02/2020)
Health care hassles greatly increase patients’ likelihood of delaying or forgoing care, according to a VA Greater Los Angeles study. Researchers surveyed women Veterans receiving care at 12 VA medical centers. They found that 39% reported four or more hassles to obtaining care, while 26% reported no hassles. Hassles included the work a patient must do to get questions answered between appointments or to navigate pharmacy, testing, and specialty services. Patients who said they faced four or more hassles were five times more likely to delay or skip care, compared to those with no hassles. Improving communication and coordination hassles is an important step in improving patients’ access to care, say the researchers. ( Healthcare (Amsterdam, Netherlands) , Feb. 29, 2020)
Gender differences in newly separated Veterans’ health care use
Photo for illustrative purposes only. ©iStock/Human Role
(04/02/2020)
Researchers from the VA Central Western Massachusetts Healthcare System identified gender differences in newly separated Veterans’ health care use. They surveyed nearly 50,000 Veterans about 90 days after military separation and then again a year later. Results showed that sleep problems, anxiety, and depression were linked to greater health care use for both men and women. Women were twice as likely as men to use health care in general. However, men and women were equally likely to use VA care. For women Veterans, unstable housing at separation was linked with less health care use a year later, especially for those with mental health issues. The results suggest that VA needs to do more to reach out to women Veterans considering that they are more likely to use health care than men but not more likely to use VA care, say the researchers. One way to improve this disparity, they say, may be housing assistance programs targeting women. ( American Journal of Managed Care , March 2020)
Infectious disease specialist consultation improves long-term S. aureus outcomes
Photo: ©iStock/South_agency
(04/02/2020)
Infectious disease consultation improves long-term outcomes for patients with Staphylococcus aureus bacteremia, found an Iowa City VA study. Bacteremia is when the bacterial infection makes it into the bloodstream. Studies have shown that 15% to 30% of patients with S. aureus bacteremia die within 30 days. They also have high rates of infection recurrence. Researchers studied data on more than 30,000 VA patients who had the infection. About half of the patients had a consultation with an infectious disease specialist during their initial hospital stay. These patients were 23% less likely than patients who had not had a consultation to die from any cause in the five years after hospitalization. They were also 32% less likely to have a bacteremia recurrence five years later. The results suggest that consulting infectious disease specialists improves patients’ long-term health, say the researchers. ( JAMA Network Open , Feb. 5, 2020)
Trust of electronic health records sharing differs by race
Photo for illustrative purposes only. ©iStock/DragonImages
(03/19/2020)
Patient views on sharing electronic health records differed by race, in a study of nearly 20,000 Veterans. Currently, VA patients must opt in to allow their electronic health records to be shared with outside health care providers. But as VA transitions to a new electronic health record system, it is switching to an opt-out model to make data-sharing easier. In the opt-out model, patient data can be shared with other health care providers unless the patient withdraws consent. Researchers surveyed patients about their preferences for providing data-sharing consent. A majority of white patients, 57%, preferred an opt-out policy. But patients of other races were less likely to prefer the opt-out model: 48% of Asian/Pacific Islander patients, 45% of Hispanic patients, 40% of black patients, and 38% of Native American patients preferred this policy to opt-in. The results show that cultural sensitivity and trust must be considered during the electronic health records implementation, say the researchers. ( Journal of the American Informatics Association , March 9, 2020)
Hoarding treatment shows promise
Photo: ©iStock/Dennis Torkhov
(03/19/2020)
A community-based intervention for hoarding disorder shows promise, found a VA San Diego study. Hoarding refers to compulsively acquiring and saving large quantities of things, and it can often impede daily living. It is much more common in older adults than younger people. Researchers tested a treatment called Cognitive Rehabilitation and Exposure/Sorting Therapy (CREST). During an initial two-year program, 15 out of 37 participants completed the program. In those 15, there was significant improvement in hoarding severity and clutter volume. After the initial test, the program was expanded to reach more patients. The results suggest that CREST can be successfully used in the community with positive results, according to the researchers. ( International Psychogeriatrics , March 5, 2020)
Many providers unaware of COPD treatment guidelines
Photo for illustrative purposes only. ©iStock/nimis69
(03/19/2020)
Many primary care providers in VA are unaware of recommendations for treating chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, found a VA study. Inhaled corticosteroids are recommended for COPD only when patients have frequent exacerbations. But more than 50% of Veterans with mild to moderate COPD are prescribed the medication. A survey of primary care providers at 13 VA facilities found that providers are largely unaware of current evidence and recommendations. For example, 46% of those surveyed did not know of the risk of pneumonia caused by corticosteroids. Providers said they were unable to keep up with current literature because of the broad scope of practice. Many were also reluctant to change prescriptions from other doctors. The results support the idea that lack of awareness on guidelines is an important part of corticosteroid overuse, say the researchers. ( Journal of General Internal Medicine , January 2020)
Augmentee status and mental health risk in women service members
(U.S. Army Reserve photo by Master Sgt. Michel Sauret,for illustrative purposes only.)
(03/12/2020)
Women in the Reserves or National Guard who deploy on temporary duty assignments without their home unit may be at higher risk of mental health problems than those who serve in their regular units. Researchers with the Central Arkansas and Iowa City VA health care systems surveyed women who deployed to Iraq or Afghanistan as individual-augmentees. Individual-augmentees are service members who deploy with a unit other than their regular one. Compared to women who deployed with their home unit, these women were more likely to experience depression, PTSD, and binge drinking. Women in the Reserves or National Guard also had higher mental health risk than active duty women. Prior studies have found similar results in men. The results suggest that particular focus should be given to the mental health risks of Reserve/Guard women who deploy as individual-augmentees, say the researchers. ( Women’s Health Issues , Feb. 18, 2020)
Antimicrobial hospital curtains fall short in curbing contamination
Photo: ©iStock/pixelci
(03/12/2020)
Antimicrobial curtains did not reduce hospital room contamination in an Iowa City VA and University of Iowa study. Researchers compared the microbe levels on hospital room privacy curtains in an intensive care unit. Some rooms had standard curtains, while others had curtains impregnated with halamine, an antimicrobial polymer. The rooms with antimicrobial curtains did not have lower contamination levels than the rooms with standard curtains. Antimicrobial curtains that were sprayed twice weekly with disinfectant had lower microbe levels than unsprayed antimicrobial curtains, but the effect lasted only 72 hours. Further study is needed to find out what, if any, effect antimicrobial curtains have on infection rates, according to the researchers. ( American Journal of Infection Control , March 2, 2020)
Exercise boosts quality of life after liver transplant
Photo for illustrative purposes only. ©iStock/Yuri_Arcurs
(03/12/2020)
Exercise can improve quality of life after a liver transplant, found a review including a VA Pittsburgh researcher. Physical fitness and frailty often improve slowly and may even deteriorate after a liver transplant. Based on a review of the available literature, researchers found that an exercise program can improve both fitness and quality of life for transplant patients. In addition to combating muscle loss and frailty, exercise can counteract post-transplant metabolic syndrome, which causes complications such as diabetes and hypertension. Exercise can improve post-transplant quality of life through both better health and increased social support. The researchers suggest that a tailored exercise program be part of post-transplant care. ( Liver Transplant , March 3, 2020)
Quality of life improvements for PTSD patients differ by gender
Photos for illustrative purposes only. ©iStock/ Petko Ninov; DigitalSkillset
(03/06/2020)
How PTSD treatment improves quality of life differs in men and women patients, found a study by VA San Diego researchers. While cognitive processing therapy has been shown to improve PTSD symptoms, the treatment’s effect on quality of life is less well-understood. The study looked at quality of life outcomes of men and women undergoing this treatment. Results showed that a reduction in depression symptoms was most likely to improve quality of life for women with PTSD. For men, reduced feelings of anger best predicted quality of life improvements. The findings suggest that the effectiveness of PTSD treatment should be evaluated within the context of gender, say the researchers. ( Military Medicine , Feb. 20, 2020)
Neurofeedback has potential as schizophrenia treatment
Photo: ©iStock/leezsnow
(03/06/2020)
Neurofeedback could improve cognitive function in patients with schizophrenia, but more study is needed, according to a VA San Diego and University of California at San Diego study. In neurofeedback, patients are able to directly see visual or auditory representations of their own brain activity. It may allow patients to modulate their neural activity. The review found some evidence that neurofeedback can lead to measurable changes in brain function in schizophrenic patients. However, most studies on the subject are either case studies or studies with small sample sizes. Large, randomized clinical trials are needed to validate the effectiveness of neurofeedback in schizophrenia, according to the researchers. ( Schizophrenic Bulletin , March 2, 2020)
Possible biomarkers of traumatic brain injury identified
Photo: ©iStock/nicolas
(03/06/2020)
VA researchers and colleagues identified six new biomarkers that could possibly be used to identify traumatic brain injury caused by blasts. In a mouse model of blast exposure, the researchers performed two different tests to identify proteins linked to TBI. They found 75 unique proteins present in the thalamus of blast-exposed mice but not in control mice. They also tested the blood and found antibodies linked to 46 proteins in blast-exposed mice. Six of the identified proteins showed up in both tests. These six proteins have potential as biomarkers to identify blast-related TBI through blood tests, say the researchers. ( Heliyon , Feb. 17, 2020)
Study finds unexpected relationship between social connectedness, depression
Photo: ©iStock/kali9
(02/27/2020)
A VA Portland study found an unexpected relationship between social connectedness and depression. Researchers surveyed 262 Veterans with depression, asking about social connectedness. Social connectedness comprised social support, interpersonal conflict, loneliness, social norms, and number of confidants. Surprisingly, higher levels of loneliness were linked to decreased depression and suicidal thoughts one year later. A higher number of confidants was linked to increased depression. A more expected result was that higher levels of emotional support led to fewer mental health visits. More study is needed on the seemingly paradoxical relationship between depression and social connectedness, say the researchers. ( Social Psychiatry and Psychiatric Epidemiology , Nov. 6, 2019)
Online therapy with peer support useful for depression
Photo for illustrative purposes only. ©iStock/JohnnyGreig
(02/27/2020)
An online cognitive behavioral therapy program with peer specialists improved short-term depression symptoms and quality of life for Veterans with depression, in a VA Ann Arbor study. Patients with depression were given either usual care or a computerized cognitive behavioral therapy treatment supported by peer specialists in addition to usual care. Usual care consisted of medication and in-person psychotherapy. The online program included videos, interactive assignments, and symptom self-monitoring, in addition to peer support. Peer specialists were other Veterans who had lived with depression. The treatment group had greater improvement of depression symptoms than the treatment-as-usual group. However, the groups had similar symptoms six months later. The treatment group did have greater improvements in quality of life and mental health recovery three months after treatment. The results show that cognitive behavioral therapy with peer support may be an effective treatment for depression. ( Psychological Services , Jan. 14, 2020)
Telehealth PTSD treatment as effective as in-person care, but has higher drop-out
Photo for illustrative purposes only. ©iStock/FatCamera
(02/27/2020)
Telehealth is an effective way to deliver PTSD treatment, but it does lead to higher drop-out rates than in-person treatment, found a VA San Diego study. Veteran patients with PTSD received prolonged exposure treatment in one of three ways. Some received treatment at home via teleconferencing. Others received teleconference treatment at a VA facility. For a third group, a therapist traveled to the patient’s home for in-person treatment. All three groups saw similar levels of clinical effectiveness. The results confirm previous studies that found telehealth to be an effective way to treat PTSD. However, patients in the home or office telehealth groups were significantly more likely to drop out of treatment before completion. Patients in the at-home in-person group had lower drop-out rates than the other two groups. The results show that prolonged exposure can be effectively delivered via telehealth, say the research, but that treatment with an in-person element can help curb drop-out. ( Depression and Anxiety , Dec. 24, 2019)
Study: Increased opioid dose not linked to improved chronic pain
Photo: ©/Charles Wollertz
(02/21/2020)
Increasing opioid dosing does not seem to improve chronic pain, found a study by VA Portland researchers and colleagues. The study followed more then 500 patients with musculoskeletal pain for two years. All patients were on a steady opioid dose at the beginning of the study. About 20% of participants had their opioid dose increased at some point. But only 3% of those patients showed any meaningful improvement in their pain. The entire group showed small improvements in pain intensity and other symptoms, regardless of whether their dose had been increased or not. The results suggest that, while stable doses of long-term opioid therapy can improve pain, higher doses do not lead to better results, according to the researchers. ( Pain , Jan 24, 2020)
VA patient portal leads to fewer duplicate lab tests
Photo by Jerry Daliege
(02/21/2020)
Use of the MyHealtheVet digital portal decreased duplicate diabetes testing among patient who use more than one type of health care, found an Iowa City VA study. MyHealtheVet is a website that allows Veterans to access their VA health care information. It includes a feature called VA Blue Button, which allows users to download their VA medical records. The researchers studied how using the portal affected HbA1c testing in patients receiving health care from both VA and non-VA providers. Those who used Blue Button at least once were significantly less likely to have duplicate testing. Duplicate testing was defined as more than five HbA1c tests in a year. The results show that the VA patient portal can lead to better information-sharing and less wasteful testing. ( Telemedicine Journal and e-Health , Feb. 11, 2020)
Mixed results from peer specialists for formerly homeless Veterans
Photo: ©iStock/kevinruss
(02/21/2020)
Peer specialists offered some benefit to formerly homeless Veterans for housing stability, but not behavioral health problems, found a VA study. Researchers looked at outcomes for Veterans in the U.S. Housing and Urban Development-VA Supported Housing (HUD-VASH) program. Participants were assigned peer specialist services or treatment as usual. Peer specialists were other Veterans who had shown significant recovery from mental health issues. They used a structured curriculum to meet with their assigned Veteran participants for up to 40 weeks. Peer meetings focused on mental health, substance use recovery, and community integration. Veterans working with the top-performing peer specialists showed greater housing stability between 400 and 800 days after the program began. However, the overall average time spent in housing for the peer group was not statistically higher than those receiving treatment as usual. Behavioral health problems, such as mental health symptoms and addiction severity, were not affected by the peer specialist program. Further study with more sensitive measures is needed on how beneficial the peer program is to these Veterans, say the researchers. ( Medical Care , Jan. 7, 2020)
Insight on how subtle cognitive difficulties predict decline
Photo for illustrative purposes only. ©iStock/fizkes
(02/13/2020)
Patients with subtle cognitive difficulties showed signs of brain changes linked to cognitive decline and Alzheimer’s disease, in a study by VA San Diego researchers. They ran PET and MRI brain scans on more than 700 patients. The scans showed that patients with subtle cognitive difficulties had faster amyloid accumulation than cognitively normal patients. Amyloid is a toxic protein. Its build-up in the central nervous system has been linked to Alzheimer’s. Patients with subtle cognitive difficulties also showed thinning of a section of the brain called the entorhinal cortex. Patients with mild cognitive impairment—a more advanced stage of cognitive decline—had faster atrophy in the entorhinal cortex and hippocampus. The findings suggest that objective psychological measures of subtle cognitive difficulties could help identify brain changes before impairment becomes noticeable, say the researchers. ( Neurology , Jan. 28, 2020)
Sense of purpose may protect against cognitive decline
Photo: ©iStock/FG Trade
(02/13/2020)
Having a sense of purpose in life may protect against cognitive decline, found an Atlanta VA and Emory University study. In a survey of more than 5,000 middle-aged participants, a greater sense of purpose was linked with less perceived cognitive decline. Statistical analysis showed that purpose in life is a strong predictor of cognitive decline when considered along with known protective and risk factors for cognition. Protective factors include education, exercise, and activity levels. Risk factors for cognitive decline include depression, health problems, and smoking. Interventions to enhance purpose in life as early as middle age may be useful, according to the researchers. ( Journal of Affective Disorders , Feb. 15, 2020)
Benefits of testosterone therapy limited; more research needed
Photo for illustrative purposes only. ©iStock/FlairImages
(02/13/2020)
Testosterone treatment in older men may provide small improvements in sexual functioning and quality of life, but little benefit for other common symptoms of aging, according to a Minneapolis VA review. In men with low testosterone, sexual functioning and quality of life improved after testosterone therapy. However, the improvements were low to moderate. The review found little to no effect of testosterone therapy on physical functioning, depression, energy and vitality, or cognition. Not enough evidence exists to draw conclusions on how testosterone treatment affects cardiovascular events or prostate cancer. More research in needed on the possible harms of the treatment. ( Annals of Internal Medicine , Jan. 7, 2020)
Pet ownership linked to lower risk of high blood pressure
Photo for illustrative purposes only. ©iStock/adamkaz
(02/05/2020)
Pet ownership was associated with lower rates of high blood pressure, in a study by Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center researchers and associates. Having a pet has previously been linked to lower cardiovascular risk, mostly due to increased physical activity and social support. Researchers looked at data on more than 10,000 participants to examine the link between pets and health. Pet owners in the study had lower hypertension rates than non-owners. Owning a pet did not seem to affect rates of heart failure, coronary artery disease, diabetes, or stroke. Further studies are needed to draw conclusions on the protective effect of pet ownership, say the researchers. ( American Journal of Cardiology , Jan. 29, 2020)
Study points to shortcomings in VA outcomes for joint replacement surgery
Photo for illustrative purposes only. ©iStock/sturti
(02/05/2020)
VA patients have poorer short-term outcomes than non-VA patients in the general population after hip or knee replacement, found a large retrospective study. Researchers, including one from the VA Central Western Massachusetts Health System, looked at data on more than 10,000 VA and nearly 60,000 non-VA patients who had joint replacement surgery. They found that VA patients were more likely to have hospital readmission, prolonged length of stay, and complications. The finding held even after the researchers adjusted for higher rates of illness in the VA population. More research is needed to understand and address the discrepancy between VA and non-VA outcomes, say the researchers. ( Journal of the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons , Jan. 30, 2020)
Toilet flushing may increase bacteria contamination in hospitals
Photo: ©iStock/contrastaddict
(02/05/2020)
Toilet flushing may contribute to the spread of harmful bacteria in hospitals, according to a study including Iowa City VA researchers. Flushing a toilet can send tiny particles of fecal matter into the air. Researchers took air samples in the rooms of patients with C. difficile infections. They found that concentrations C. difficile and other harmful bacteria were significantly higher after the toilet was flushed. The researchers suggest evaluating prevention measures such as adding toilet lids where they are not currently in place. ( Infection Control and Hospital Epidemiology , Jan. 31, 2020)
Sexual dysfunction linked to suicidal thoughts in Veterans with PTSD
Photo for illustrative purposes only. ©iStock/milanvirijevic
(01/30/2020)
Sexual dysfunction was linked to suicidal thoughts in Veterans with PTSD, in a San Diego VA study. Sexual dysfunction is common in people with PTSD. Researchers assessed 138 Veterans and their partners before they began couples-based PTSD treatment. The assessment showed that decreased sexual pleasure and decreased frequency of sexual intercourse were linked with more recent suicidal thoughts in male Veterans. For female Veterans, increased sexual frequency was marginally linked with increased suicidal thoughts. The results stress the importance of assessing sexual function as a component of mental health for Veterans with PTSD, say the researchers. ( Archives of Sexual Behavior , Jan. 8, 2020)
Training program leads to less unnecessary antibiotic prescribing
Photo: ©iStock/izusek
(01/30/2020)
A training program led to less antibiotic prescribing in the VA Pittsburgh Healthcare System. Overprescribing of antibiotics has led to the rise of antimicrobial-resistant bacteria. While many antibiotic stewardship programs have focused on hospitals, most antibiotics are prescribed in outpatient settings. Researchers studied seven VA primary care clinics that underwent antibiotic interventions. The programs involved clinician education, peer comparisons, and computer decision support. The overall number of antibiotic prescriptions decreased significantly after the program. The rate of unnecessary antibiotic prescribing decreased by 36% six months after training. This rate was 25% lower than baseline a year later. The results show that interventions such as this can reduce potentially harmful antibiotic prescribing practices. ( Clinical Infectious Diseases , Dec. 9, 2019)
Understanding chemotherapy-resistant lung cancer
Photo: ©iStock/Design Cells
(01/30/2020)
Researchers with the Miami VA Healthcare System uncovered a mechanism by which some lung cancer cells resist the chemotherapy drug cisplatin. Researchers used cells in the lab, human blood samples, and mouse models to examine cancer cells at a molecular level. They found that cisplatin-resistant cells had higher activity of an enzyme called IDO1 and higher levels of reactive oxygen species, a chemical byproduct found in many cancers. Reactive oxygen species can cause cell breakdown. But IDO1 initiates the metabolization of kynurenine (an amino acid), which helps cancer cells cope with excessive reactive oxygen species. The researchers were able to use drugs to suppress IDO1 activity. This increased reactive oxygen species levels and in turn inhibited cancer cell growth. The results suggest that IDO1 inhibitors may be a suitable treatment in patients whose lung cancer resists cisplatin, say the researchers. ( Molecular Cancer Research , January 2020)
More study needed on best C. difficile prevention practices
Photo by Mitch Mirkin
(01/23/2020)
A study of C. difficile in VA hospitals did not find a clear link between prevention practices and infection rates. Researchers surveyed 123 VA facilities. Since implementing prevention practices in 2012, 49% of facilities reported decreased C. difficile rates. Eighteen percent reported an increase, and 33% reported no change. The variation did not appear to be linked to self-reported cleaning practices, length of contact precautions, use of private rooms, or certification of infection preventionists. More study is needed on what practices prevent C. difficile spread, say the researchers. ( Infection Control and Hospital Epidemiology , January 2020)
Primary care visits linked to better statin adherence
Photo for illustrative purposes only. ©iStock/monkeybusinessimages
(01/23/2020)
More frequent primary care visits were linked to higher statin use and adherence, in a Houston VA study. Researchers looked at more than a million patients with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease at 130 VA facilities. About 80% of patients were on statins to control cholesterol. Patients who frequently saw their primary care providers had more common statin use, higher-intensity statin use, and better statin adherence. Better adherence may be related to a greater rapport between provider and patients, suggest the researchers. ( American Heart Journal , Dec. 7, 2019)
Genetics linked to cognitive impairment
Photo: ©iStock/Nicolas
(01/23/2020)
Schizophrenic and bipolar patients with cognitive impairment had genetic variations that have also been linked to cognitive problems in the general population, in a study using Million Veteran Program data. Researchers analyzed the genomes of more than 5,000 patients with schizophrenia or bipolar disorder. No single gene variant showed a significant link to cognitive impairment. However, the researchers did find minor correlations between overall cognitive function and a number of variants shown in the past to be involved in cognitive performance, intelligence, and schizophrenia risk. Greater genetic risk of schizophrenia was linked to poorer cognitive performance. The results add to the understanding of how genetics affect cognition, say the researchers. ( American Journal of Medical Genetics , Dec. 24, 2019)
Mindfulness program could curb suicide among Veterans
Photo for illustrative purposes only. ©iStock/electravk
(01/16/2020)
Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy shows promise for reducing suicide among Veterans, found a VA New Jersey study. Researchers evaluated 140 Veterans at high risk for suicide. Veterans received either Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy adapted for Suicide (MBCT-S) or VA treatment as usual. MBCT-S combines mindfulness therapy with suicide safety planning. Patients receiving MBCT-S along with usual treatment made fewer suicide attempts within 100 days of treatment. Five of the MBCT-S group attempted suicide, compared with 13 from the control group. MBCT-S patients also showed greater distress tolerance over time. MBCT-S was especially effective in participants who also received VA residential care. No participants receiving both MBCT-S and residential care attempted suicide during the study period. Patients receiving both also had significantly greater improvement on depression, hopelessness, distress tolerance, and suicide-related coping, compared with controls. MBCT-S could be a useful intervention for patients at-risk for suicide, according to the researchers. It can be integrated within existing VA programs, they say. ( International Academy of Suicide Research , Oct. 29, 2019)
Study probes link between exercise-induced breathing problems and military exposures
Photo by Senior Airman Julianne Showalter, USAF
(01/16/2020)
Findings on the link between military exposures and exercise-induced breathing problems were mixed in a VA New Jersey study. Exposure to fine particulate matter in the air can lead to breathing problems. Service members in Iraq and Afghanistan were regularly exposed to dust and sand, smoke from burn pits, vehicle exhaust, and regional air pollution. Researchers tested the breathing of 24 Veterans without asthma who were not currently seeking treatment for breathing problems. After an exercise challenge, 17% tested positive for bronchial constriction. This rate is similar to the prevalence in the general population. However, a further 42% of the participants had a probable constriction response that did not meet the full diagnostic criteria. Many of the participants reported persistent cough, wheeze, and shortness of breath at the time of testing. The researchers urge continued monitoring of respiratory symptoms in this population. ( Military Medicine , Dec. 31, 2019)
Study: End-of-life care for Vets with hearing and vision loss is up to par
Photo for illustrative purposes only. ©iStock/seb_ra
(01/16/2020)
Older Veterans with hearing and vision loss receive similar end-of-life care in VA as those without sensory loss, found a Corporal Michael J. Crescenz VA Medical Center study. Researchers looked at data on more than 42,000 Veterans at 145 VA medical centers. They found that end-of-life care quality indicators were similar between patients with and without sensory loss. Patients with hearing loss had slightly lower pain management scores and less satisfaction with communication. Patients with vision loss were less likely to have received a palliative care consult or contact with a chaplain. Patients with vision loss were also less likely to report excellent overall care and satisfaction with emotional support, but most care outcomes were similar to those of patients without vision loss. ( Journal of the American Geriatrics Society , Dec. 30, 2019)
Complicated grief may make PTSD treatment less effective
Photo for illustrative purposes only. ©iStock/fizkes
(01/16/2020)
Patients with complicated grief have poorer responses to PTSD treatment, found a VA study. Complicated grief refers to feelings of loss after the death of someone close that are debilitating and do not improve with time. It often occurs with PTSD in military personnel. Researchers analyzed outcomes from Veterans being treated with prolonged exposure therapy and medication for combat-related PTSD. They found that those who also had complicated grief had lower response to PTSD treatment than those with PTSD only. Those with complicated grief had greater PTSD severity and trauma-related guilt both before and after treatment. They were also more likely to have suicidal thoughts during the study than patients with PTSD only. The results suggest that screening for complicated grief as well as PTSD may be needed, say the researchers. ( Depression and Anxiety , January 2020)
Gene mutation linked to ALS
Photo: ©iStock/koto_feja
(12/19/2019)
A large genetic study including a VA researcher identified a gene linked to ALS. Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a neurodegenerative disease that affects nerve cells. People with ALS progressively lose control of the body’s muscles, which eventually leads to death. Researchers studies the genomes of more than 20,000 patients with ALS and almost 60,000 without to look for genetic causes of the disease. They found that a specific mutation of the gene KIF5A is linked with developing ALS. Mutations to this gene previously have been linked to two other neurodegenerative diseases: hereditary spastic paraplegia and Charcot-Marie-Tooth type 2. However, ALS appears to be linked to a different mutation to gene KIF5A than the other two diseases. The discovery will add to scientists’ understanding of the causes and progression of ALS. ( Neuron , March 21, 2018; available in PubMed Central in March 2019)
Post-exertion malaise symptom inconsistent in Vets with Gulf War illness
Photo for illustrative purposes only. ©iStock/ClarkandCompany
(12/19/2019)
Although many Veterans with Gulf War illness experience post-exertional malaise, the causes and patterns of the condition remain unknown, found a VA study. Post-exertional malaise refers to increased pain, fatigue, and cognitive problems after physical or mental exertion. It is a common symptom of GWI. Researchers compared symptoms of 39 Gulf War Veterans with and 28 without GWI after exercise. Some participants with GWI perceived exercise as more painful and fatiguing, compared with a control group. However, not all participants with GWI reported post-exertional malaise. The results show that post-exertional malaise is not always a symptom of GWI, say the researchers,