Understanding cognitive decline risks in trauma-exposed first responders

Neuropsychological Profile and Neurocognitive Biomarkers of Attention and Memory in Trauma-Exposed Responders at Risk of Premature Cognitive Decline

NIH-funded research New York State Psychiatric Institute Dba Research Foundation for Mental Hygiene, INC · NIH-10844335

This study is looking at how experiencing trauma affects thinking skills in first responders, like those who helped during the World Trade Center attacks, by using online tests to see if their cognitive abilities change over time.

Quick facts

Grant typeU01 cooperative agreement
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionNew York State Psychiatric Institute Dba Research Foundation for Mental Hygiene, INC NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New York, United States)
Project IDNIH-10844335 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how trauma exposure affects cognitive function, particularly focusing on first responders who experienced significant stress during events like the World Trade Center attacks. By utilizing remote web-based neuropsychological tasks, the study aims to assess cognitive abilities in these individuals over time, specifically looking for early signs of cognitive decline. The research will involve 1,200 participants and will compare cognitive outcomes based on varying levels of trauma exposure and health conditions. The goal is to identify potential neurocognitive biomarkers that could help in early detection and intervention.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are first responders who have been exposed to trauma and are receiving health services through the WTC Health Program.

Not a fit: Patients who have not been exposed to significant trauma or who do not have a history of cognitive concerns may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to earlier identification of cognitive decline in trauma-exposed individuals, allowing for timely interventions.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that trauma exposure can lead to cognitive decline, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

New York, 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.
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.