University of Birmingham is carrying out a research project to investigate how trauma – both physical and psychological – can result in accelerated aging amongst ex-Service personnel.

Working with a cohort of former Service personnel who deployed to Afghanistan, the research will determine the biological age of ex-Service personnel who experienced trauma during their deployment, and identify how the effects of trauma can be alleviated.

Ex-Service personnel who survive a major traumatic injury have an increased risk of early onset of diseases, such as cardiovascular disease and dementia, which would typically be associated with old age. However, there is a lack of understanding of why these increased risks occur. The researchers will therefore seek to understand whether aging has been accelerated by physical or psychological trauma, and how best ex-Service personnel who share this experience can have their symptoms treated so that they can lead successful and fulfilling civilian lives.

The 15-month project working in conjunction with the Defence Medical Rehabilitation Centre’s ADVANCE cohort at Stanford Hall.