Investigating the link between PTSD and heart rhythm problems in veterans

Association of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder with Cardiac Electrical Instability: A Twin Study

NIH-funded research Emory University · NIH-10885992

This study is looking at how PTSD might impact heart health in male veterans who are twins, by checking their heart's electrical activity to see if stress could be linked to serious heart problems.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionEmory University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Atlanta, United States)
Project IDNIH-10885992 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research examines how posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) may affect heart health, specifically looking at cardiac electrical instability. The study will involve 1,000 male veterans who are twins, utilizing electrocardiographic (ECG) markers to assess heart function. By analyzing data collected over a week, researchers aim to uncover potential connections between psychological stress and sudden cardiac death. The team includes experts in PTSD and heart disease, ensuring a comprehensive approach to this important health issue.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are male veterans with a history of PTSD, particularly those from the Vietnam Era.

Not a fit: Patients who are not veterans or do not have PTSD may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and management of heart health in individuals with PTSD.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated a potential link between PTSD and heart health, suggesting that this study builds on established findings.

Where this research is happening

Atlanta, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Acute Post Traumatic Stress Disorder
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.