Exploring the Impact of Genomic Medicine on Depression Treatment for Veterans: 2024 Veterans Research Town Hall, ‘Genomics, Health Equity and You’
This hybrid event in person and online over WebEx will focus on Genomic biomedical research at VA and the importance of Veteran voices in VA research. Following brief presentations from Veterans, VA researchers and others about Genomics, Veterans will have an opportunity to ask questions that are important to them and to learn more about upcoming active research studies.
To attend in person, join us on May 14th, 2024 at 10 a.m.—12 p.m. in the Crescenz VA Multipurpose Room, 3rd floor, 3900 Woodland Ave, Philadelphia. To attend online, register here.
***
GENOMICS RESEARCH MAY SOUND FUTURISTIC or distant from everyday life, but its impacts have real-world effects that Veterans can take advantage of right now. The 2024 Veterans Research Town Hall will provide a chance to learn about Genomic medicine at VA. Veteran input and questions can guide researchers towards studying genetic factors that are relevant to Veterans’ health outcomes, leading to more targeted and effective treatments.
Recently, a member of the CHERP Veterans Community Advisory Board experienced firsthand how genetic testing can influence their mental health treatment.
After years of grappling with anxiety and depression and trying numerous medications along with therapy without success, her psychiatrist brought up a new option: the CMCVAMC Neuromodulation Clinic. The Veteran was surprised. She had never heard of this clinic or the treatments they offer.
The Neuromodulation Clinic in Philadelphia, like its counterparts at other VA Medical Centers, specializes in treatment-resistant depression (TRD). This type of depression doesn't respond well to medications; veterans with TRD have typically tried at least three antidepressants and one supplemental medication without relief.
While antidepressants are effective for many, nearly a third of people with depression may fall into the treatment-resistant category. This type of depression doesn't respond well to medications; veterans with TRD have typically tried at least three antidepressants and one supplemental medication without relief.
So, what can Neuromodulation Clinics do for veterans with TRD when medications don't help? Our board member delved into this question and wants to share her journey with you. She was surprised to find out that the first step, after the referral from her psychiatrist, was a phone conversation about Genomics. Although not mandatory for clinic treatment, genetic testing helps the medical team craft a personalized treatment plan. Certain genes are associated with how the body responds to antidepressants, helping explain why one medication may not work while another could be more effective.
Finding the right treatment for depression is critical for veterans, as it can be a matter of life and death. TRD patients not only suffer from severe symptoms but also face higher suicide rates and adverse impacts on their physical health. Fortunately, the Neuromodulation Clinic combines genetic testing, therapy, medication, and innovative treatments like repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) and Esketamine therapies. Again, our Board member was surprised to learn the VA provides these kinds of treatments. After an evaluation with the clinic and a discussion with her psychiatrist, she is moving forward with rTMS.
An FDA-approved non-evasive treatment, rTMS sends magnetic pulses to activate neurons in specific brain regions related to depression. While it may sound intimidating, the therapy is akin to exercising atrophied muscles. rTMS has been used in civilian and veteran medicine for decades and has a history of safety and efficacy. Impressed by the lack of side effects and history of use, our board member, after evaluation and consultation, is moving forward with rTMS at the Neuromodulation Clinic in hopes of finding relief for her Major Depressive Disorder.
May is Mental Health Awareness Month. If you're curious about the Neuromodulation Clinic at the CMCVAMC, consider visiting their website, calling them at 215-823-4036, or discussing with your psychiatrist to see if it's a suitable option for you or a veteran you know.
