The VA is conducting a health survey of veterans who served after September 11, 2001.
The Comparative Health Assessment Interview (CHAI) is designed to study the health and well-being of veterans who served during Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF), Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF), and Operation New Dawn (OND).
Researchers are looking at the physical and mental health, employment, and social relationships of veterans who were deployed to combat zones, those that did not, and similar civilians.
Participants
VA's goal is to enroll 13,500 pre-selected adults in this study, including:
- 4,500 Veterans deployed to OEF/OIF/OND
- 4,500 Veterans who served during OEF/OIF/OND but were not deployed
- 4,500 civilians as a comparison group
Researchers will also conduct a more thorough neurocognitive assessment with a subset of 300 veterans.
Methods
This study includes:
- An online or telephone survey
- An in-person interview to test neurocognitive function for a sub-sample of veterans
Researchers will also conduct a more thorough neurocognitive assessment with a subset of 300 veterans.
Questionnaire
The study survey includes questions about:
- Physical and mental health and well-being
- Satisfaction in work and social relationships
- Suicide risk
Both the veteran and civilian versions of the survey are designed to provide a direct comparison of experiences and health among these study groups.
How To Participate
Potential participants are scientifically selected, and so VA cannot accept volunteers for this study. If you are invited participate, VA encourages you to join. The study results will be used to assist current and future veterans.
