New screening and training adjustments are intended to prevent brain injuries and improve cognitive health for U.S. troops.
U.S. Army researchers have launched a new initiative to track and improve soldiers’ brain health by conducting baseline cognitive screenings. This project, which began in August, intends to assess troops’ normal brain function before long deployments or injuries, allowing for early detection of cognitive changes. Soldiers, especially those in high-risk roles, will be regularly re-screened, with the goal of screening all troops by 2026.
In the early stages of development, the Army’s brain health initiative seeks to address cognitive health challenges through updated training schedules, new recovery programs, and advanced equipment. Early data suggests that spreading out training sessions, such as shooting range exercises, over time rather than consecutive days could lower the risk of brain injuries. Leaders are now adjusting training schedules to reduce blast exposure and allow more recovery time.
“What that strategy seeks to do is to address the brain health needs of the warfighter, to optimize brain health in multiple environments… and to address the readiness of the force and force health protection against known and emerging hazards,” said Colonel Jama VanHorne-Sealy, director of the Army’s Occupational Health Directorate.
As the Lord Leads, Pray with Us…
- For Secretary Christine Wormuth and Army directors as they seek to protect the brain health of troops.
- For U.S. military leaders and officials as they screen for and assess the cognitive changes of service personnel.
Sources: Navy Times, Military Times, U.S. Army
