Using longitudinally collected data from the Ft. Devens Cohort, this project look at the associations of neurotoxicant exposures and PTSD symptom trajectories. Findings indicate that the compounded impact of both traumatic experiences and neurotoxicant exposure increased the severity and likelihood of PTSD symptoms in the years following deployment.
Prior research indicates that chemical exposures from the Gulf War impact lipid homeostasis, as well as contribute to inflammatory and metabolic dysfunction. Having seen lipid sex-specific differences in animal models, researchers sought to examine human plasma lipids. Distinct differences were found in the lipid profiles of males versus females with GWI.
Data collected from the Ft. Devens Cohort at multiple timepoints over the past 30 years was analyzed, looking for associations between health symptoms and neurotoxicant exposures. This research identified multiple exposures that are associated with specific health symptoms.
The Gulf War research team at VA Boston Healthcare System examined the health trajectories of veterans of the Ft. Devens Cohort over the past 25+ years. Tracking health symptoms from the time they returned from deployment, to date, revealed significant increase in 12 different symptoms (since prior surveys in 1997-1998).