• Author: Niloofar Afari
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Exploring sex differences in irritable bowel syndrome prevalence, environmental risk, and comorbidities: A population-based cohort study of Veterans

Abstract: INTRODUCTION: Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a chronic gastrointestinal pain condition that has not been thoroughly studied in relation to environmental exposures and …

A multi-ancestry meta genome-wide association study of migraine among Veterans: Associations with traumatic brain injury, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder

Abstract: Migraine is a neurovascular disorder that poses a high burden to Veterans, who face a greater risk than sex-matched individuals in the general population. Genetic …

ACTing with mindfulness for pain (AMP): A pilot randomized controlled trial of an integrated acceptance and commitment therapy and mindfulness meditation program

Abstract: Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) is an empirically-supported psychotherapy for chronic pain. Although mindfulness is a key component of ACT, most ACT protocols do …

Regulation of cues vs cognitive behavioral therapy for binge eating and weight loss among Veterans: A feasibility and randomized clinical trial

Abstract: IMPORTANCE: Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) has the most empirical support for treatment of binge eating. Appetitive traits, including food responsiveness and satiety …

Perspectives on an integrated acceptance and commitment therapy and mindfulness meditation program: A qualitative study of Veterans with chronic pain

Abstract: To maximize the delivery and efficacy of acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), there is a need to better understand the lived experiences of individuals undergoing …

Posttraumatic stress disorder and weight loss in male and female active-duty service members: A weight management study

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Overweight and obesity are critical public health concerns with relevance to U.S. military personnel, as active duty service members must meet physical …

Mixed method study of feasibility and acceptability of electronic screening for measurement-based symptom monitoring of Veterans accessing mental health treatment in Veterans Affairs community care program settings

Abstract: Background: 2022 survey data showed 29% of Veterans utilized Veterans Affairs (VA) paid health care at a non-VA facility, 6% higher than in 2021. Despite an increase in …

Multisite pain among United States Veterans with posttraumatic stress disorder: Prevalence, predictors, and associations with symptom clusters

Abstract: Persistent pain in multiple distinct body sites is associated with poorer functional outcomes above and beyond pain intensity and interference. Veterans, and especially …

Cognitive symptoms in Veterans with migraine or traumatic brain injury: a Million Veteran Program study

Abstract: Objective: To examine the spectrum and severity of cognitive symptoms in veterans with migraine, traumatic brain injury (TBI), or both; and to evaluate the extent to …

Psychometric properties of the weight loss readiness test in active duty military personnel enrolled in a weight management trial

Abstract: Introduction: The Weight Loss Readiness Test (WLRT) was developed to encourage consideration of factors influencing readiness to engage in weight loss. The WLRT is used …

Associations among meaning in life, coping, and distress in trauma-exposed U.S. military Veterans

Abstract: Experiencing meaning in life may be particularly relevant following traumatic experiences as individuals who report meaning post trauma report less psychological …

The impact of COVID-19 on health behavior engagement and psychological and physical health among active duty military enrolled in a weight management intervention: An exploratory study

Abstract: INTRODUCTION: The COVID-19 pandemic profoundly affected the health and well-being of people globally. Some studies suggest individuals with overweight or obesity may have …