VA’s Office of Research and Development released findings on Veteran mortality, weight loss, and heart failure. Research shows Veterans and service members have lower mortality rates from natural causes, accidents, and homicides compared to the general population. However, the suicide risk remains concerning, particularly among Women Veterans, who are 65% more likely to die by suicide, often involving firearms. Male Veterans show a slightly lower suicide rate than the general population, but firearm use is 33% higher. This study included over 200,000 participants from 2001 to 2018.

In a separate study, Veterans prescribed semaglutide at a VA weight management clinic achieved an average weight loss of 10%, along with improvements in body mass index, blood pressure, cholesterol, triglycerides, and blood sugar after one year. The findings indicate that GLP-1 inhibitors like semaglutide can enhance weight management efforts.

Additionally, research from Washington, D.C., and Providence, Rhode Island, found that magnesium supplements lowered the risk of hospitalization or death by 19% in Veterans with heart failure. The study emphasizes the potential benefits of magnesium supplementation, especially for older patients.