Prospectively Assessed Posttraumatic Stress Disorder and Associated Physical Activity
Abstract
Objective. This study's objective was to examine the association of physical activity with prospectively assessed posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms in a large military cohort. Methods. This study used baseline and follow-up questionnaire data from a large, prospective study of US military service members. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to examine the adjusted odds of new-onset and persistent PTSD symptoms associated with light/moderate physical activity, vigorous physical activity, and strength training at followup. Results. Of the 38,883 participants, 89.4% reported engaging in at least 30 minutes per week of any type of physical activity. At follow-up, those with PTSD symptoms reported proportionately less physical activity than those with no symptoms. Vigorous physical activity was most consistently associated with PTSD symptoms; those who reported at least 20 minutes of vigorous physical activity twice per week had significantly decreased odds for new-onset and persistent PTSD symptoms. Conclusions. Engagement in physical activity, especially vigorous activity, is significantly associated with decreased odds of PTSD symptoms among US service members. While further longitudinal research is necessary, a physical activity component may be valuable to PTSD treatment and prevention programs.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 01, 2011
- Accession Number
- ADA561595
Entities
People
- Alyson J. Littman
- Besa Smith
- Cynthia A LeardMann
- Edward J. Boyko
- Molly L. Kelton
- Timothy Steven Wells
- Tyler Clain Smith
Organizations
- Naval Health Research Center