Investigating cognitive effects of military training on brain function
Official title: Pilot Trial Examining the Impact of Training Related Sub-Concussive Forces On Cognition and Selected Electroencephalogram Measures In Canadian Special Forces Members
Run by Canadian Forces Health Services Centre Ottawa · NCT05474066 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing how intense military training affects thinking skills in Special Operation Forces personnel by comparing their brain function before and after training.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years to 65 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 20 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Canadian Forces Health Services Centre Ottawa Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Ottawa, Ontario) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | August 1, 2022 |
| Main results expected | August 1, 2025 |
| Study ends | December 1, 2026 |
| Registry record updated | February 13, 2024 |
| Trial ID | NCT05474066 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates for this study are male or female Special Operation Forces members aged 18 to 65 with normal or corrected vision and hearing.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with a history of neurological disorders, those taking epilepsy or psychotropic medications, or individuals with metal plates under their scalp will not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This observational study aims to explore the cognitive effects of intense military combat training and repetitive sub-concussive forces on Special Operation Forces personnel. Participants will undergo cognitive testing and EEG recordings before and after their training regimen to assess changes in cognitive functioning. The study seeks to clarify the relationship between repetitive sub-concussive exposure and cognitive symptoms experienced by military personnel. A total of 20 participants will be evaluated for attention, working memory, and information processing capabilities.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could enhance understanding of cognitive impairments in military personnel and inform better training and rehabilitation strategies.
How similar studies have gone: While there is limited research specifically on military training's cognitive effects, studies on brain trauma and cognitive function have shown promising results, suggesting potential for this approach.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * ● Male or female between 18 and 65 * Normal or corrected to normal vision and hearing (Note: If the patient has hearing aids or wears glasses, they are still able to complete the assessment. They will need to remove hearing aids for the Attention \& Concentration and Information Processing test) * Sit still for 10-15 minutes * Understand basic instructions of cognitive tests Exclusion Criteria: * ● Metal plates under their scalp that cross the midline * Taking epilepsy medications * History of neurologic or neuropsychiatric disorder prior to concussion in controls * Taking psychotropic medications * History of complete deafness * Supplements or performance enhancing drugs that can affect brain function
Where it's running
-
Canadian Forces Health Services
Ottawa, Ontario, Canada Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Gaurav Gupta — Gaurav Gupta MPC
- Study coordinator: Gaurav Gupta
- Email: gaurav.gupta@forces.gc.ca
- Phone: 6139451551
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.