Understanding the causes of suicidal behavior in US Veterans
Official title: Identification of Demographic, Clinical, and Genetic profiles for Suicidal Behavior in US Veterans
Funded at Iowa City VA Medical Center · NIH-11003657 · Data updated 2026-11-12
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 type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Iowa City VA Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Iowa City, United States) |
| Project start | January 1, 2024 |
| Project end | December 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| NIH project number | 5I01BX006007-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11003657 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include US Veterans, particularly those diagnosed with bipolar disorder or other serious mental illnesses.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not Veterans or do not have a history of serious mental illness may not benefit from this research.
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.
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 gone: 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 VA Medical Center
Iowa City, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Willour, Virginia L — Iowa City VA Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Willour, Virginia L
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.