OHSU Brain Institute

Robert Goings, from Lebanon, Oregon, has joined a small but growing number of people choosing to control their Parkinson’s symptoms with high-intensity focused ultrasound at OHSU.

The procedure, which involves no cutting into the head, no anesthesia and no recovery in a hospital, holds promise as a way to ease severe symptoms for millions of people with Parkinson’s worldwide.

Ultrasound aimed at the brain offers new hope for Parkinson’s patients A noninvasive treatment called high-intensity focused ultrasound helped relieve the shaking, stiffness and pain that accompany Parkinson’s disease.

Veterans diagnosed with cancer face a higher risk of su***de attempts — especially in the months following diagnosis — and that risk can persist for years, found a large, national study led by OHSU and the Veterans Health Administration.

Data from more than 292,000 veterans with cancer found that overwhelming distress tied to diagnosis, treatment and long-term effects of the disease continues to put many patients at risk well into survivorship.

"Cancer care can’t just focus on treating tumors... We have to care for the whole person — their mental health, their quality of life and the existential distress that comes with serious illness," said Dr. Donald R. Sullivan, associate professor of medicine in the OHSU School of Medicine and lead author of the study.

OHSU study: Veterans with cancer face ongoing su***de risk Large, national study finds su***de attempt risk among veterans is highest after diagnosis, remains elevated for years; highlights need for continued mental health support.

New OHSU research has linked tinnitus with elevated serotonin levels in certain regions of the brain. While far from a cure, the discovery could one day help scientists understand how to reverse the condition through brain chemistry. https://www.opb.org/article/2026/05/12/think-out-loud-tinnitus-health-science-research/?fbclid=IwY2xjawR9YYNleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFEcm1zWFdSb1dEdklhQnVXc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHmM60GARSrQDC53gN1l4jmvcwNputyErJGV1k7LBwGq6YnlE3Cn8CwDqZnD4_aem_JqvsI32g1C7nm4a29bKcHQ

OHSU researchers connect tinnitus with elevated serotonin activity in the brain While far from a cure, the new research could one day help scientists understand how to reverse tinnitus through brain chemistry.

Earlier this month, a surgical team at OHSU performed Oregon’s first simultaneous bilateral adrenalectomy on a patient with Cushing's Syndrome, which occurs when the body is exposed to an overabundance of the cortisol hormone.

The surgery removed both of a patient's adrenal glands at once, which requires two highly specialized surgeons, but cuts the surgical time in half.

“I’m incredibly grateful for everybody from OHSU... I felt super safe and taken care of, and in the best hands that I could be. I’m very, very appreciative," said Raven Stamper of Ashland, Oregon.

OHSU team first in Oregon to perform specialized surgery to treat Cushing's syndrome OHSU surgeons perform simultaneous bilateral adrenalectomy, reducing surgery time by half.

Congratulations to our very own Natalie Pearson, BSN, RN, SCRN from the OHSU 7C Neurosciences Intensive Care Unit, who was awarded the 2026 OHSU Nurse of the Year Award for "Champion of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging."⭐

This award recognizes nurses advancing diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging in patient care and workplace culture.

Nominated by Brianne Shropshire, OHSU Critical Care Nurse Manager, who had this to say about Natalie:

"What truly sets Natalie apart is the way they creates space for others. They are consistently kind, inclusive, and intentional in actions, fostering an environment where individuals feel safe, welcomed, and empowered to contribute. Natalie ensures that diverse voices are not only invited but actively heard and valued.

Natalie Pearson exemplifies what it means to be a champion of DEIB through leadership, advocacy, and everyday interactions. They are highly deserving of this recognition for their ongoing commitment to equity, inclusion, and belonging within OHSU and the communities we all serve."

Well done, Natalie!👏 https://now.ohsu.edu/contents/42245416

The same neurotransmitter commonly leveraged to relieve symptoms of depression and anxiety also may exacerbate a vexing condition known as tinnitus.

Tinnitus is a constant sensation of ringing or buzzing in the ears, creating a continual irritation for some and severe anxiety for others. Global prevalence is estimated as high as 14%, with many severely affected.

Research links tinnitus with serotonin Neurotransmitter known for relieving depression could have opposite effect on tinnitus.

The Parkinson's Foundation Helpline is made up of real people: compassionate, trained PD information specialists from various health professions. 📞 ✉️

Monday through Friday from 9am to 7pm ET, the Helpline is ready to assist you in English or Spanish.

Reach out today for Parkinson’s Awareness Month and Find Real Answers to your PD questions, connections to local resources and health professionals, personalized advice and more: 1-800-4PD-INFO (1-800-473-4636) | [email protected]

Exercise is a vital part of Parkinson’s disease management, helping maintain balance, mobility, flexibility and overall quality of life. However, finding the optimal workout routine with PD is easier said than done.

💪 This Parkinson’s Awareness Month (and all year long), Parkinson's Foundation is here to help you Find Real Answers about exercise recommendations, programs and resources you can trust: Parkinson.org/Awareness

OHSU medical students and faculty provide free vision screening and eyeglasses at the new Bridges to Sight clinic, a partnership with Transition Projects, improving access to essential ophthalmology services for underserved community members.

OHSU Casey Eye Institute opens student-led clinic serving downtown, Portland-metro area New clinic will provide low-barrier ophthalmology services to community members in need.