THE PERSISTENCE OF COMBAT-RELATED PTSD AMONG MALE VIETNAM WAR VETERANS
2024
Long-term Effects of PTSD in Vietnam War Veterans
Sample size: 507
publication
Evidence: moderate
Author Information
Author(s): Spiro Avron, Kaiser Anica Pless, Smith Brian, Stellman Jeanne, Stellman Steven
Primary Institution: VA Boston Healthcare System
Hypothesis
What are the patterns of PTSD among male Vietnam War veterans over time?
Conclusion
Many Vietnam War veterans continue to experience PTSD and its negative impacts on their health and well-being decades after their service.
Supporting Evidence
- 56% of the sample did not meet PTSD criteria at any time.
- 25% evidenced fluctuating subthreshold PTSD.
- 10% had prior but not current PTSD.
- 9% met criteria for current PTSD in 2020.
- The strong dose-response relationship between combat exposure and PTSD symptoms has persisted over nearly a half-century.
- Persistent PTSD was associated with greater depression, anxiety, and disability.
Takeaway
Some Vietnam veterans still feel sad and anxious because of their experiences in the war, even many years later.
Methodology
Veterans were surveyed by mail in 1984, 1998, and 2020 to assess PTSD patterns.
Participant Demographics
Male Vietnam combat veterans who were American Legion members.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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