Invisible Wounds Foundation Launches Brain Health Collaborative to Combat Traumatic Brain Injury in Service Members and Prevent Military Suicides
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~ As the 24th anniversary of 9/11 approaches, the Invisible Wounds Foundation has announced the launch of its Brain Health Collaborative. This Chicago-based nonprofit organization is dedicated to advancing the science of diagnosing, treating, and preventing traumatic brain injury (TBI) in Special Operations Forces.

The Collaborative brings together a diverse group of stakeholders, including researchers, academic institutions, philanthropic supporters, government agencies, and private stakeholders. Their shared goal is to accelerate progress in combat and blast-induced TBI research and develop a diagnostic tool and effective treatments. While their focus is on Special Operations Forces, their research will benefit all service members and veterans suffering from TBI.

Shannon Connell, Chief Executive Officer of the Invisible Wounds Foundation, emphasized the urgent need for this collaborative effort. "The invisible wounds of TBI are impacting and taking the lives of our nation's elite warriors at alarming rates," she stated. "The Brain Health Collaborative will unite all stakeholders to accelerate progress toward understanding the root cause of TBIs and developing the first diagnostic and effective treatments as quickly as possible."

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TBIs have been recognized as the signature wound of the Global War on Terror. They are often caused by repeated exposure to blasts from weapons during combat and training. These injuries can lead to ongoing physical and behavioral symptoms such as headaches, blurred vision, sleeplessness, irritability, anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideation.

According to data from the Department of Defense (DOD), over 460,000 U.S. service members have been diagnosed with TBI between 2000 and 2020. In 2023 alone, there were 20,000 new cases reported among active service members and veterans by the Traumatic Brain Injury Center of Excellence.

Connell stressed that addressing TBI is a crucial mission that cannot fail. "Just as our warriors show absolute commitment in serving this nation," she said," we must show the same commitment to advancing the science that will deliver reliable diagnostics and effective treatments."

To guide the Collaborative's efforts, the Invisible Wounds Foundation has established a Medical and Science Advisory Council (MSAC). This council is made up of renowned doctors and scientists in the fields of brain health and military-related TBI research. Led by Dr. James Kelly, the Foundation's Chief Medical Scientist and former Founder and Director of the National Intrepid Center of Excellence (NICoE) at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, the MSAC will identify the most promising TBI research projects for funding.

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Dr. Kelly, who has over 30 years of experience in brain health, expressed his honor in leading this collaborative effort. "It is a powerful way to bring together the finest minds and resources to identify and fund the most promising research ideas," he said. "I'm confident it will produce the first true diagnostic and most effective treatments for blast-induced TBI."

The Brain Health Collaborative is a crucial step towards addressing TBI in our nation's service members. With dedicated stakeholders working together, there is hope for improved diagnostics and treatments for this devastating injury.
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