Milica Vucurovic

Dr. Milica Vucurovic


Research Focus & Metrics

Academic Career Length

2Years (2025-Present)

(Calculated once Scilit publication data is synced: current year − year of first publication + 1)

Representative Publications

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24 March 2025 in Genes
Verified
Journal Article
Open access
PDF file
JMJelena of Public Health of Serbia Dr Milan Jovanovic Milic
Jelena of Public Health of Serbia Dr Milan Jovanovic Milic
MVMilica Vucurovic
Milica Vucurovic
DJDragana P. Jovic
Dragana P. Jovic
VSVeroslava Stankovic
Veroslava Stankovic
EGEdita Grego
Edita Grego
BSBeograd Sapic
Beograd Sapic
Neuropsychiatric disorders are complex conditions with multifactorial etiologies, in which genetics play a pivotal role. Despite significant advancements in psychiatric research, traditional treatment options remain largely symptomatic, focusing on clinical signs without fully addressing the underlying biological causes. However, recent developments in precision medicine—an approach that tailors treatments based on genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors—hold great promise for transforming the treatment of these disorders. By identifying specific genetic markers and understanding gene–environment interactions, precision medicine can offer more personalized and effective treatments, leading to better patient outcomes. Our primary aim was to explore how integrating genetic data with environmental factors could enhance the understanding and treatment of neuropsychiatric conditions such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and depression. The secondary aim was to examine the potential of pharmacogenomics and gene therapy in improving therapeutic strategies. The results indicate that while significant progress has been made, challenges remain, including the complexity of genetic interactions and the need for more granular phenotypic data. In conclusion, precision medicine has the potential to revolutionize neuropsychiatric treatment by providing individualized care that considers genetic makeup, environmental influences, and lifestyle factors, paving the way for more effective therapies and improved patient outcomes.

Verified
Journal Article
Open access
PDF file
JMJelena of Public Health of Serbia Dr Milan Jovanovic Milic
Jelena of Public Health of Serbia Dr Milan Jovanovic Milic
MVMilica Vucurovic
Milica Vucurovic
EGEdita Grego
Edita Grego
DJDragana P. Jovic
Dragana P. Jovic
BSBeograd Sapic
Beograd Sapic
VJVerica Jovanovic
Verica Jovanovic
Prolonged grief disorder, also known as post-loss grief, was officially recognized in the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-11) after years of debate within the mental health community. However, while post-loss grief gained recognition, anticipatory and preparatory grief, which occur before a loss, have remained underexplored. Preparatory grief affects individuals nearing the end of life, while anticipatory grief impacts the loved ones of those who are about to die. These grief types are particularly prevalent among women, who are more vulnerable to their emotional and psychological challenges. The primary aim of this study was to investigate preparatory grief in women diagnosed with cancer and anticipatory grief in their loved ones, with the goal of developing management guidelines. The secondary objective was to identify protective factors, such as psychotherapeutic interventions and systemic support, to alleviate grief-related distress. This review synthesized evidence from the PubMed and Cochrane databases, covering studies from 1968 to 2020 and after the COVID-19 pandemic in 2023. The results revealed that anticipatory grief was common among loved ones, leading to increased emotional distress, while cancer patients experienced preparatory grief, facing both emotional and practical challenges. Both types of grief were associated with altered stress responses, such as lower diurnal cortisol levels. Psychotherapeutic interventions, particularly early and systemic psychotherapy, were found to effectively reduce symptoms of both anticipatory and preparatory grief, improving coping strategies and emotional well-being. The study concluded that empowering coping strategies and social support played key roles in enhancing emotional outcomes for both patients and their families.

24 March 2025 in Journal of Clinical Medicine
Verified
Journal Article
Open access
PDF file
JMJelena of Public Health of Serbia Dr Milan Jovanovic Milic
Jelena of Public Health of Serbia Dr Milan Jovanovic Milic
IZIva Zrnić
Iva Zrnić
MVMilica Vucurovic
Milica Vucurovic
EGEdita Grego
Edita Grego
DJDragana P. Jovic
Dragana P. Jovic
BSBeograd Sapic
Beograd Sapic
Background/Objectives: Our background comprises the previously identified consequences of bipolar disorder’s chronicity, which significantly affects not only the patients but also their caregivers, leading to challenges in caregivers’ physical, emotional, and financial well-being. This impact on caregivers’ quality of life (QOL) is often overlooked in the context of patient-centered care for bipolar disorder. Our objective was to explore how patient-centered care in bipolar disorder management affects caregivers, with a focus on improving both patient and caregiver outcomes. Methods: We performed a thematic qualitative synthesis of reviewed literature and case studies to explore the intersection of patient-centered care in bipolar disorder management and its impact on caregivers. This comprehensive review allowed us to identify key behavioral patterns and emotional fluctuations in patients that significantly affect caregiver well-being, with a focus on the challenges caregivers face due to the unpredictability of mood episodes and the lack of adequate support in current care models. Results: In the results, we identified that while patient-centered care enhances patient outcomes, it also exacerbates the strain on caregivers if their needs are not adequately addressed. Specific behavioral pathways and emotional fluctuations in bipolar disorder impact caregivers, such as the unpredictability of mood episodes, cognitive distortions during manic and depressive phases, and the emotional toll of managing crises. This article also emphasizes the role of patient-centered care, which places the patient at the core of treatment decisions, but often neglects the strain placed on caregivers. Conclusions: We conclude that a holistic approach to care, which includes caregiver support and resources, is essential for improving the QOL of both patients and caregivers. Future research is needed to develop strategies and interventions that better support caregivers and enhance their overall well-being, ensuring that patient care models are truly comprehensive.