V.A. Reaches Milestone: One Million Veterans Enrolled in Genetic Database
The Department of Veterans Affairs (V.A.) has achieved its goal of enrolling one million veterans in the Million Veteran Program, the largest genetic database in the world. The database includes genetic information, electronic medical records, and data on diet and environmental exposure. The V.A. hopes that the diverse population in the database, including minorities and women, will yield valuable insights into diseases and disorders. So far, over 350 papers have been published on various conditions, including post-traumatic stress disorder and heart disease. The V.A. is committed to protecting patient privacy and only a select few have access to the records that tie data to individuals.