The Impact of War-Related Stress
Scientists from the Dmytro Chebotarov Institute of Gerontology at the National Academy of Medical Sciences of Ukraine have conducted a study examining the effects of war stress. Their research specifically applied canine therapy to rehabilitate soldiers who sustained severe injuries on the front lines. According to Dr. Valentyna Chyzhova, head of the department of pharmacotherapy for age-related diseases at the institute, the positive effects from the therapy sessions lasted for a minimum of two weeks.
Research in the Byshiv Community
The study was carried out in the Byshiv community, where wounded soldiers participated in the program. Kateryna Bieliaieva from the Kyiv Regional Police Department assisted in conducting the canine therapy sessions, bringing her dogs to treat men who had suffered serious injuries. Patients were examined four to five times, allowing researchers to document changes in their condition.
The research noted that the war has accelerated aging among Ukrainians, with many individuals having a biological age 10-15 years older than their chronological age. Dr. Chyzhova stated that many of these changes, particularly mental ones, can be corrected. She emphasized that patients who previously showed resistance to drugs aimed at improving endothelial function regained this function following canine therapy.
'If there is no organic damage, then yes, the majority of these changes are reversible.' — Valentyna Chyzhova
However, the scientist also noted that it is likely impossible to completely halt the aging process: 'It is more likely that we will not succeed, because the biological clock ticks regardless. We can support physiological norms—yes, that is possible.' The findings underscore the importance of novel approaches in rehabilitating soldiers who have endured serious war injuries and highlight the challenges of population aging in a war context.
This study is significant not only for the military but for all of Ukrainian society, which is enduring the war's consequences. The use of canine therapy could become a new standard in treating stress disorders and trauma, emphasizing the need to integrate alternative rehabilitation methods into medical practice. In the context of an ongoing conflict, finding effective solutions to support mental health and improve citizens' quality of life is critically important.
As the conflict continues to take a toll on the health of Ukrainians, recent research highlights a concerning trend regarding accelerated aging. A related study reveals that the psychological and physical effects of war have added a decade to the biological age of many individuals. To explore this alarming phenomenon further, you can read about the significant differences in biological aging among Ukrainians in this important study.