Organizational psychosocial factors and deployment-related exposure concerns in Afghanistan/Iraq War veterans

The Unique Health Needs of Post-9/11 U.S. Veterans

This article applies a hazard-based approach to the identification of physical, mental, and psychosocial health needs of post-9/11 veterans. The weaponry, survival, and population of servicemen and women by the military have evolved over time, particularly during the post-9/11 era. It is evident that military hazards and potential exposures vary depending on not only the deployment era but also the specific location and role. Many individual factors may affect the development of health problems. Recent evidence-based literature about post-9/11 veterans' long-term complex health issues is summarized, so occupational health nurses can advocate for the provision of veteran-sensitive care.

The Association Between Toxic Exposures and Chronic Multisymptom Illness in Veterans of the Wars of Iraq and Afghanistan

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to determine if post-9/11 veterans deployed to the Iraq and Afghanistan conflicts experienced toxic exposures and whether they are related to symptoms of chronic multisymptom illness (CMI).

METHODS

Data from 224 post-9/11 veterans who self-reported exposure to hazards in theater were analyzed using hierarchical regression.

RESULTS

Of the sample, 97.2% endorsed experiencing one or more potentially toxic exposure. In a regression model, toxic exposures and CMI symptoms were significantly associated above and beyond covariates. Follow-up analyses revealed that pesticide exposures, but not smoke inhalation was associated with CMI symptoms.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings suggest that toxic exposures were common among military personnel deployed to the most recent conflicts, and appear to be associated with CMI symptoms. Additional research on the impact of toxic exposures on returning Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans' health is needed.