Physical Mental Social and Family Health Outcomes of Gulf War Veterans
Abstract
This research uses secondary, longitudinal data to assess the physical, mental, social, and familial health status of Persian Gulf War/Desert Storm veterans (GWVs) relative to the health status of otherwise comparable groups of active military personnel. The sample included 565, largely married males with families, between 19-58 years of age. Most (72%) were white, 19% were black, and 9% were Hispanic or of other (or mixed) ethnicity. The majority were enlisted and served in the Army. At the time of baseline data collection, 25% had recently deployed to or returned form the Gulf; 15% had recently deployed to some other, noncombat region or returned from it; and 60% had not recently been deployed or returned. Analyses show that the demographic (e.g., age, education) and military (e.g., rank, branch of service) backgrounds of these groups did not vary significantly, thus any effects associated with deployment status are not likely attributable to such potentially confounding factors. Results identify two significant effects of Gulf deployment, both associated with family well being. Spouses of GWVS had significantly greater psychopathology than others, and the pile up of potentially stressing life events was significantly greater among the families of GWVS than of others.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 01, 2004
- Accession Number
- ADA423993
Entities
People
- Carolyn S. Breda
Organizations
- Vanderbilt University