Effects of Deployment Exposures on Cardiopulmonary and Autonomic Function
Condition: Abnormality, Respiratory System; Autonomic Nervous System
MeSH terms: Respiratory System Abnormalities
Study type: Observational

Summary: 
      Following deployment to Operations Enduring and Iraqi Freedom and Operation New Dawn
      (OEF/OIF/OND), Veterans report breathing problems, difficulty exercising and other symptoms.
      These symptoms may be related to deployment exposures, such as regional dust and sand, smoke
      from burning trash, and local industry. Studies have reported poor air quality, but very
      little is known about the effect that exposure to this polluted air may have on Veterans'
      short- and long-term health. Investigators will determine whether deployment-related
      exposures have affected respiratory and nervous system function in these Veterans - data that
      may then be used to guide rehabilitation. Ultimately, the investigators' long-term goal is to
      prevent the development of chronic respiratory conditions in this group of OEF/OIF/OND
      Veterans.
    

Detailed description: 
      Evidence is clear that Veterans deployed to Operations Enduring and Iraqi Freedom and
      Operation New Dawn (OEF/OIF/OND) have been exposed to high levels of particulate matter (PM)
      that exceeded environmental, occupational and military exposure guidelines. PM exposure is
      acknowledged as a risk factor for cardiovascular morbidity and mortality, and can increase
      the risk of and exacerbate airway disease. The reviewed epidemiology indicates a high
      prevalence of newly reported respiratory symptoms in OEF/OIF/OND Veterans that has
      significantly affected their deployment duties, including their physical exertion capability.
      Despite these retrospective data and limited air sampling reports, prospective studies are
      lacking. This pilot study will evaluate cardiorespiratory and autonomic function in
      OEF/OIF/OND Veterans as compared to Veterans never deployed to the region.

      To evaluate cardiopulmonary function, each Veteran will undergo a standardized exercise
      challenge and bronchodilator spirometry. To evaluate autonomic nervous system function,
      investigators will examine indices of heart rate variability and cardiovascular reflex
      regulation (e.g. baroreflex sensitivity and cerebral autoregulation) during a variety of
      tasks.

      Data derived from this pilot project will yield important insight on the extent and severity
      of cardiorespiratory and/or autonomic impairments - data that may provide intervention points
      for attenuating long-term adverse outcomes such as pulmonary and cardiovascular disease.
      Through early identification, treatment options (e.g. exercise therapy, pharmaceutical) may
      be implemented to enhance physiological function, with the goal of helping to alleviate
      symptoms and reduce chronic disease risk.
    

Time perspective: Cross-Sectional
Sampling method: Non-Probability Sample
Study population: 
        Community sample, outpatient clinic
      
Biospecimen description: 
      No biospecimens will be collected
    
Keywords: exercise tolerance; Veterans; operation enduring freedom; operation Iraqi freedom