Understanding the causes of suicidal behavior in US Veterans

Identification of Demographic, Clinical, and Genetic profiles for Suicidal Behavior in US Veterans

NIH-funded research Iowa City VA Medical Center · NIH-11003657

This study is looking at what factors might lead to suicidal thoughts and behaviors in US Veterans with bipolar disorder, using data to find patterns that could help improve prevention efforts.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionIowa City VA Medical Center NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Iowa City, United States)
Project IDNIH-11003657 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the demographic, clinical, and genetic factors that contribute to suicidal behavior among US Veterans, particularly focusing on those with bipolar disorder. By analyzing large datasets, including the Cooperative Studies Program and the Million Veteran Program, the study aims to identify patterns and risk factors associated with suicide attempts. Machine learning techniques will be employed to enhance the understanding of these complex interactions, potentially leading to improved prevention strategies. The research seeks to uncover both heritable and non-heritable influences on suicidality, providing a comprehensive view of this critical public health issue.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include US Veterans, particularly those diagnosed with bipolar disorder or other serious mental illnesses.

Not a fit: Patients who are not Veterans or do not have a history of serious mental illness may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better identification of Veterans at risk for suicide and inform targeted interventions.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding genetic factors related to suicidality, indicating that this approach has potential for success.

Where this research is happening

Iowa City, 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 Affective Disorders
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.