DESNOS in Croatian War Veterans with PTSD
Author Information
Author(s): Iva Nemčić-Moro, Tanja Frančišković, Delores Britvić, Miro Klarić, Iva Zečević
Primary Institution: University Hospital Center Zagreb
Hypothesis
To determine the presence of disorder of extreme stress not otherwise specified (DESNOS) in Croatian war veterans who suffer from combat-related posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Conclusion
The study found that PTSD and DESNOS can occur together, leading to more severe symptoms and a higher frequency of comorbid mental disorders.
Supporting Evidence
- 43% of participants met the criteria for DESNOS.
- Participants with both PTSD and DESNOS reported more severe PTSD symptoms.
- Those with DESNOS had more comorbid mental disorders, including depression and panic disorder.
Takeaway
Some soldiers who have PTSD also have another condition called DESNOS, which makes their symptoms worse and means they might need extra help.
Methodology
The study included 247 veterans with PTSD who were assessed using self-report questionnaires over a month in 2008.
Potential Biases
Participants may have exaggerated symptoms to receive benefits, and the lack of a control group limits the findings.
Limitations
The sample was treatment-seeking and may not represent the general veteran population; self-reported data may be biased.
Participant Demographics
Participants were Croatian war veterans from the 1991-1995 war, with no significant differences in demographics between groups.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.001
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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