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Shaw R, Pengelly C, Crinnin C, Amina E, Wutz AV, King PR. Scoping review of the role of social support in women veterans' psychosocial and health outcomes. J Women Aging 2024:1-25. [PMID: 39252402 DOI: 10.1080/08952841.2024.2395111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2023] [Revised: 06/04/2024] [Accepted: 07/16/2024] [Indexed: 09/11/2024]
Abstract
Women veterans are a steadily growing population and have unique military experiences (e.g., report high rates of sexual harassment and assault) that are impactful across the lifespan. High levels of positive social support have been linked to a range of positive outcomes in both civilian and military populations. However, research has not consistently explored social support and interpersonal functioning in women veterans, or as potential mechanisms of change within interventions for women veterans. This is a scoping review of peer-reviewed articles that evaluated social support. Articles with at least 10% women or formally evaluated sex or gender in reference to social support were included. A total of 69 studies evaluated social support in relation to women veterans' health outcomes. From a biopsychosocial perspective, social support is an important construct to examine relative to health care engagement and response. Limited research considered aging women veterans needs or focused on the intersectional identities of women veterans. Positive social support can have major physical and mental health benefits, yet limited research and disparate methodological approaches minimize the ability to draw conclusions on how social support can best be leveraged to support women veterans. Women veterans' roles and military experiences (e.g., increased likelihood of combat exposure) are changing and this population is aging. Research is needed to inform best practices for this growing segment of the veteran population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachael Shaw
- VA Center for Integrated Healthcare, Buffalo, New York, USA
- Department of Psychology, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York, USA
- VA Ann Arbor Healthcare System, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | | | - Charlotte Crinnin
- VA Center for Integrated Healthcare, Buffalo, New York, USA
- School of Education & Human Services, Canisius College, Buffalo, New York, USA
| | - Evodie Amina
- VA Center for Integrated Healthcare, Buffalo, New York, USA
- School of Public Health and Health Professions, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York, USA
| | | | - Paul R King
- VA Center for Integrated Healthcare, Buffalo, New York, USA
- Department of Rehabilitation Science, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York, USA
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Schoenfeld AJ, Cirillo MN, Gong J, Bryan MR, Banaag A, Weissman JS, Koehlmoos TP. Development of Chronic Pain Conditions Among Women in the Military Health System. JAMA Netw Open 2024; 7:e2420393. [PMID: 38967922 PMCID: PMC11227075 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2024.20393] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2024] [Accepted: 05/06/2024] [Indexed: 07/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Importance The incidence of chronic pain has been increasing over the last decades and may be associated with the stress of deployment in active-duty servicewomen (ADSW) as well as women civilian dependents whose spouse or partner served on active duty. Objective To assess incidence of chronic pain among active-duty servicewomen and women civilian dependents with service during 2006 to 2013 compared with incidence among like individuals at a time of reduced combat exposure and deployment intensity (2014-2020). Design, Setting, and Participants This cohort study used claims data from the Military Health System data repository to identify ADSW and dependents who were diagnosed with chronic pain. The incidence of chronic pain among individuals associated with service during 2006 to 2013 was compared with 2014 to 2020 incidence. Data were analyzed from September 2023 to April 2024. Main Outcomes and Measures The primary outcome was the diagnosis of chronic pain. Multivariable logistic regression analyses were used to adjust for confounding, and secondary analyses were performed to account for interactions between time period and proxies for socioeconomic status and combat exposure. Results A total of 3 473 401 individuals (median [IQR] age, 29.0 [22.0-46.0] years) were included, with 644 478 ADSW (18.6%). Compared with ADSW in 2014 to 2020, ADSW in 2006 to 2013 had significantly increased odds of chronic pain (odds ratio [OR], 1.53; 95% CI, 1.48-1.58). The odds of chronic pain among dependents in 2006 to 2013 was also significantly higher compared with dependents from 2014 to 2020 (OR, 1.96; 95% CI, 1.93-1.99). The proxy for socioeconomic status was significantly associated with an increased odds of chronic pain (2006-2013 junior enlisted ADSWs: OR, 1.95; 95% CI, 1.83-2.09; 2006-2013 junior enlisted dependents: OR, 3.05; 95% CI, 2.87-3.25). Conclusions and Relevance This cohort study found significant increases in the diagnosis of chronic pain among ADSW and civilian dependents affiliated with the military during a period of heightened deployment intensity (2006-2013). The effects of disparate support structures, coping strategies, stress regulation, and exposure to military sexual trauma may apply to both women veterans and civilian dependents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew J. Schoenfeld
- Center for Surgery and Public Health, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Madison N. Cirillo
- Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Jonathan Gong
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | | | - Amanda Banaag
- Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Joel S. Weissman
- Center for Surgery and Public Health, Department of Surgery, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Tracey P. Koehlmoos
- Center for Health Services Research, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland
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3
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Grover LE, Williamson C, Burdett H, Palmer L, Fear NT. Level of perceived social support, and associated factors, in combat-exposed (ex-)military personnel: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Soc Psychiatry Psychiatr Epidemiol 2024:10.1007/s00127-024-02685-3. [PMID: 38771350 DOI: 10.1007/s00127-024-02685-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2023] [Accepted: 05/03/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Combat deployment increases exposure to potentially traumatic events. Perceived social support (PSS) may promote health and recovery from combat trauma. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to synthesize studies investigating the level of PSS and associated factors among (ex-)military personnel who served in the Iraq/Afghanistan conflicts. METHODS Five electronic databases were searched in August 2023 and searches were restricted to the beginning of the Iraq/Afghanistan conflicts in 2001. The search was conducted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. A quality assessment was carried out, and a meta-analysis and narrative synthesis were performed. RESULTS In total, 35 papers consisting of 19,073 participants were included. Of these, 31 studies were conducted in the United States (US) and 23 were cross-sectional. The pooled mean PSS score was 54.40 (95% CI: 51.78 to 57.01). Samples with probable post-traumatic stress disorder had a lower mean PSS score (44.40, 95% CI: 39.10 to 49.70). Approximately half of the included studies (n = 19) investigated mental health in relation to PSS, whilst only four explored physical health. The most frequently reported risk factors for low PSS included post-traumatic stress disorder, depression and anxiety, whilst post-traumatic growth and unit support were protective factors. CONCLUSION Higher levels of PSS were generally associated with more positive psychosocial and mental health-related outcomes following deployment. PSS should be targeted in psychosocial interventions and education programmes. Future research should investigate PSS in (ex-)military personnel across other countries and cultures, based on the lack of studies that focused on PSS in countries outside of the US.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura E Grover
- King's College London, King's Centre for Military Health Research, London, SE5 9RJ, UK.
| | - Charlotte Williamson
- King's College London, King's Centre for Military Health Research, London, SE5 9RJ, UK
| | - Howard Burdett
- King's College London, King's Centre for Military Health Research, London, SE5 9RJ, UK
| | - Laura Palmer
- King's College London, King's Centre for Military Health Research, London, SE5 9RJ, UK
| | - Nicola T Fear
- King's College London, King's Centre for Military Health Research, London, SE5 9RJ, UK
- Academic Department of Military Mental Health, King's College London, London, SE5 9RJ, UK
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Gibson CJ, Bahorik A, Xia F, Peltz C, Yaffe K. Intimate Partner Violence, Mental Health, and Aging-Related Health Among Men and Women Veterans Across the Lifespan. J Gen Intern Med 2024; 39:931-939. [PMID: 37962725 DOI: 10.1007/s11606-023-08466-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2023] [Accepted: 10/06/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND A growing body of evidence suggests adverse health outcomes related to intimate partner violence (IPV), including traumatic brain injury (TBI). However, most research in this area has focused on reproductive-aged women. OBJECTIVE To examine relationships between IPV (with and without TBI), mental health, and aging-related health outcomes among men and women Veterans across the lifespan. DESIGN Cross-sectional analysis of Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) administrative data from fiscal years 2000-2019. Descriptive statistics and chi-square analyses were used to compare key comorbidities in matched samples of Veterans with and without IPV (gender-stratified and matched 1:3 based on demographics and index date). Comparisons between those with IPV and TBI relative to IPV alone were also examined. SUBJECTS Veterans aged 18 + with and without documented IPV in Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) electronic health records (n = 4108 men, 2824 women). MAIN MEASURES ICD codes were used to identify IPV, TBI, and aging-related medical (sleep disorder, hypertension, diabetes, dementia) and common psychiatric (depression, posttraumatic stress disorder, alcohol use disorder, and substance use disorder) diagnoses. KEY RESULTS Demographic characteristics were reflective of VA-enrolled Veterans (men: mean age 66, SD 16; 72% non-Hispanic White; women: mean age 47, SD 13; 64% non-Hispanic White). Relative to Veterans without IPV, both men and women with IPV had higher rates of all examined medical (e.g., sleep disorders, men: 33% vs. 52%; women: 45% vs. 63%) and psychiatric diagnoses (e.g., depression, men 32% vs. 74%; women 59% vs. 91%; all ps < .001), with evidence of an additive effect of TBI on some psychiatric outcomes. CONCLUSIONS IPV is broadly associated with aging-related and mental health, and TBI is a common correlate that may further contribute to psychiatric outcomes. Findings highlight the importance of trauma-informed care and recognizing the potential role of these exposures on men and women Veterans' health across the lifespan.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolyn J Gibson
- San Francisco VA Health Care System, San Francisco, CA, USA.
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.
| | - Amber Bahorik
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Feng Xia
- NCIRE-The Veterans' Health Research Institute, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Carrie Peltz
- NCIRE-The Veterans' Health Research Institute, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Kristine Yaffe
- San Francisco VA Health Care System, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- San Francisco Department of Neurology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
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Johnson NL, Steffensmeier KS, Garvin LA, Adamowicz JL, Obrecht AA, Rothmiller SJ, Sibenaller Z, Stout L, Driscoll MA, Hadlandsmyth K. "It Made Me Not Want to See him…": The Role of Patient-Provider Communication in Influencing Rural-Dwelling Women Veterans' Motivation to Seek Health Care for Managing Chronic Pain. HEALTH COMMUNICATION 2024; 39:1161-1174. [PMID: 37161286 DOI: 10.1080/10410236.2023.2207280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
Despite being high health care utilizers, many women Veterans perceive their pain condition to be poorly understood by their providers, which can be a strong demotivator for seeking care. We set out to understand the priorities rural-dwelling women Veterans have for using health care for their chronic pain, and interviewed participants about their experiences with (and priorities for seeking) health care for their chronic pain. Self-Determination Theory identifies three sources of motivation (autonomy, competence, relatedness), all of which were represented through two themes that reflect rural women Veterans' rationale for decision-making to obtain health care for chronic pain: role of trust and competing priorities. Women described their priorities for chronic pain management in terms of their competing priorities for work, education, and supporting their family, but most expressed a desire to function in their daily life and relationships. Second, women discussed the role of trust in their provider as a source of motivation, and the role of patient-provider communication skills and gender played in establishing trust. Rural women Veterans often discussed core values that stemmed from facets of their identity (e.g. gender, military training, ethnicity) that also influenced their decision-making. Our findings provide insight for how providers may use Motivational Interviewing and discuss chronic pain treatment options so that rural-dwelling women Veterans feel autonomous, competent, and understood in their decision-making about their chronic pain. We also discuss importance of acknowledging the effects of disenfranchising talk and perpetuating gendered stereotypes related to chronic pain and theoretical implications of this work.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole L Johnson
- Office of Rural Health, Veterans Rural Health Resource Center, Iowa City VA Health Care System
- Center for Access & Delivery Research and Evaluation, Iowa City VA Health Care System
| | - Kenda Stewart Steffensmeier
- Office of Rural Health, Veterans Rural Health Resource Center, Iowa City VA Health Care System
- Center for Access & Delivery Research and Evaluation, Iowa City VA Health Care System
| | | | - Jenna L Adamowicz
- Office of Rural Health, Veterans Rural Health Resource Center, Iowa City VA Health Care System
- Center for Access & Delivery Research and Evaluation, Iowa City VA Health Care System
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, University of Iowa
| | - Ashlie A Obrecht
- Department of Primary Care, Veteran Affairs Central Iowa Health Care System
| | - Shamira J Rothmiller
- Office of Rural Health, Veterans Rural Health Resource Center, Iowa City VA Health Care System
- Center for Access & Delivery Research and Evaluation, Iowa City VA Health Care System
| | - Zita Sibenaller
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, University of Iowa
| | - Lori Stout
- Department of Anesthesia, University of Iowa
| | - Mary A Driscoll
- Pain Research, Informatics, Multimorbidities, and Education Center, VA Connecticut Healthcare System
| | - Katherine Hadlandsmyth
- Office of Rural Health, Veterans Rural Health Resource Center, Iowa City VA Health Care System
- Center for Access & Delivery Research and Evaluation, Iowa City VA Health Care System
- Department of Anesthesia, University of Iowa
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Yancey JR, Carson CN, McGlade EC, Yurgelun-Todd DA. A Literature Review of Mental Health Symptom Outcomes in U.S. Veterans and Servicemembers Following Combat Exposure and Military Sexual Trauma. TRAUMA, VIOLENCE & ABUSE 2024; 25:1431-1447. [PMID: 37313717 DOI: 10.1177/15248380231178764] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Combat exposure (CE) and military sexual trauma (MST) are among the most common types of traumatic experiences faced by veterans and active duty servicemembers and, as such, have both garnered increased research focus over the past decades. However, there has not yet been a critical review of the literature to examine the distinct clinical presentations associated with different trauma types. This is particularly important, as understanding distinct clinical profiles could help researchers and clinicians refine treatment approaches based on trauma type. To address this question, we conducted a search of the available literature in PsycINFO and PubMed prior to October 2022. We identified 43 articles evaluating the distinct and overlapping clinical symptoms of CE and MST. Study findings were conceptually organized by psychiatric condition. In general, there was substantial variability in study methodology including sample size, composition, and operationalizations of CE and MST. Despite this variability, notable patterns emerged across studies. Specifically, MST and CE uniquely predicted posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms, MST was more related to depressive symptoms and suicidality than CE, and CE appeared to be more related to alcohol use and other externalizing behaviors. Gender also played a significant role in the relationship between CE, MST, and clinical variables across studies. This review suggests that individuals with a history of MST and CE likely have distinct clinical presentations and more research into these presentations could better inform assessment and treatment. Important methodological gaps in the literature are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- James R Yancey
- Rocky Mountain Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center (MIRECC), Department of Veterans Affairs, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
- Huntsman Mental Health Institute, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Chelsea N Carson
- Rocky Mountain Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center (MIRECC), Department of Veterans Affairs, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
- Huntsman Mental Health Institute, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Erin C McGlade
- Rocky Mountain Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center (MIRECC), Department of Veterans Affairs, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
- Huntsman Mental Health Institute, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Deborah A Yurgelun-Todd
- Rocky Mountain Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center (MIRECC), Department of Veterans Affairs, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
- Huntsman Mental Health Institute, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
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Hadlandsmyth K, Driscoll MA, Johnson NL, Mares JG, Mengeling MA, Thomas EBK, Norman SB, Lund BC. Veterans with chronic pain: Examining gender differences in pain type, overlap, and the impact of post-traumatic stress disorder. Eur J Pain 2024. [PMID: 38450917 DOI: 10.1002/ejp.2258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2023] [Revised: 02/08/2024] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 03/08/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Women are more likely to experience multiple overlapping pain conditions (MOPCs) relative to men. Post-traumatic stress disorder can negatively impact the severity and trajectory of chronic pain and its treatment. Specific associations between gender, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and MOPCs require further examination. METHODS A cohort of all Veterans in 2021 who met criteria for one or more of 12 chronic pain types was created using national Veterans Health Administration administrative data. MOPCs were defined as the number of pain types for which each patient met criteria. Multivariable logistic regression models estimated gender differences in frequency for each of the 12 pain subtypes, after controlling for demographics and comorbidities. Negative binomial regression was used to estimate gender differences in the count of MOPCs and to explore moderation effects between gender and PTSD. RESULTS The cohort included 1,936,859 Veterans with chronic pain in 2021, which included 12.5% women. Among those with chronic pain, women Veterans had higher rates of MOPCs (mean = 2.3) relative to men (mean = 1.9): aIRR = 1.31, 95% CI: 1.30-1.32. PTSD also served as an independent risk factor for MOPCs in adjusted analysis (aIRR = 1.23, 95% CI: 1.23-1.24). The interaction term between gender and PTSD was not significant (p = 0.87). Independent of PTSD, depressive disorders also served as a strong risk factor for MOPCs (aIRR = 1.37, 95% CI: 1.36-1.37). CONCLUSIONS Individuals with MOPCs and PTSD may have complex treatment needs. They may benefit from highly coordinated trauma-sensitive care and integrated interventions that simultaneously address pain and PTSD. SIGNIFICANCE Women were significantly more likely than men to experience MOPCs. PTSD was also significantly, independently, associated with MOPCs. Patients, particularly women, may benefit from tailored interventions that address both trauma and MOPCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine Hadlandsmyth
- VA Office of Rural Health (ORH), Veterans Rural Health Resource Center-Iowa City (VRHRC-IC), Iowa City VA Health Care System, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
- Center for Access & Delivery Research and Evaluation (CADRE), Iowa City VA Health Care System, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
- Department of Anesthesia, University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
| | - Mary A Driscoll
- Pain Research, Informatics, Multimorbidities, and Education (PRIME) Center, VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Nicole L Johnson
- VA Office of Rural Health (ORH), Veterans Rural Health Resource Center-Iowa City (VRHRC-IC), Iowa City VA Health Care System, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
- Center for Access & Delivery Research and Evaluation (CADRE), Iowa City VA Health Care System, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
| | - Jasmine G Mares
- Center for Access & Delivery Research and Evaluation (CADRE), Iowa City VA Health Care System, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
| | - Michelle A Mengeling
- VA Office of Rural Health (ORH), Veterans Rural Health Resource Center-Iowa City (VRHRC-IC), Iowa City VA Health Care System, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
- Center for Access & Delivery Research and Evaluation (CADRE), Iowa City VA Health Care System, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
| | - Emily B K Thomas
- VA Office of Rural Health (ORH), Veterans Rural Health Resource Center-Iowa City (VRHRC-IC), Iowa City VA Health Care System, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, University of Iowa College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
| | - Sonya B Norman
- National Center for PTSD, White River Junction, Vermont, USA
- University of California San Diego School of Medicine, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Brian C Lund
- VA Office of Rural Health (ORH), Veterans Rural Health Resource Center-Iowa City (VRHRC-IC), Iowa City VA Health Care System, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
- Center for Access & Delivery Research and Evaluation (CADRE), Iowa City VA Health Care System, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Iowa College of Public Health, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
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8
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Burgess DJ, Hagel Campbell EM, Branson M, Calvert C, Evans R, Allen KD, Bangerter A, Cross LJ, Driscoll MA, Hennessy S, Ferguson JE, Friedman JK, Matthias MS, Meis LA, Polusny MA, Taylor SL, Taylor BC. Exploring Gender Differences in Veterans in a Secondary Analysis of a Randomized Controlled Trial of Mindfulness for Chronic Pain. WOMEN'S HEALTH REPORTS (NEW ROCHELLE, N.Y.) 2024; 5:82-92. [PMID: 38404673 PMCID: PMC10890953 DOI: 10.1089/whr.2023.0086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 02/27/2024]
Abstract
Background Although studies have documented higher rates of chronic pain among women Veterans compared to men Veterans, there remains a lack of comprehensive information about potential contributors to these disparities. Materials and Methods This study examined gender differences in chronic pain and its contributors among 419 men and 392 women Veterans, enrolled in a mindfulness trial for chronic pain. We conducted descriptive analyses summarizing distributions of baseline measures, obtained by survey and through the electronic health record. Comparisons between genders were conducted using chi-square tests for categorical variables and t-tests for continuous measures. Results Compared to men, women Veterans were more likely to have chronic overlapping pain conditions and had higher levels of pain interference and intensity. Women had higher prevalence of psychiatric and sleep disorder diagnoses, greater levels of depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, fatigue, sleep disturbance, stress and pain catastrophizing, and lower levels of pain self-efficacy and participation in social roles and activities. However, women were less likely to smoke or have a substance abuse disorder and used more nonpharmacological pain treatment modalities. Conclusion Among Veterans seeking treatment for chronic pain, women differed from men in their type of pain, had greater pain intensity and interference, and had greater prevalence and higher levels of many known biopsychosocial contributors to pain. Results point to the need for pain treatment that addresses the comprehensive needs of women Veterans. Clinical Trial Registration Number: NCT04526158. Patient enrollment began on December 4, 2020.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana J. Burgess
- VA HSR&D Center for Care Delivery and Outcomes Research, Minneapolis VA Health Care System, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Emily M. Hagel Campbell
- VA HSR&D Center for Care Delivery and Outcomes Research, Minneapolis VA Health Care System, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Mariah Branson
- VA HSR&D Center for Care Delivery and Outcomes Research, Minneapolis VA Health Care System, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Collin Calvert
- VA HSR&D Center for Care Delivery and Outcomes Research, Minneapolis VA Health Care System, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Roni Evans
- Integrative Health and Wellbeing Research Program, Center for Spirituality and Healing, School of Nursing, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Kelli D. Allen
- VA HSR&D Center of Innovation to Accelerate Discovery and Practice Transformation, Durham VA Health Care System, Durham, North Carolina, USA
- Thurston Arthritis Research Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Ann Bangerter
- VA HSR&D Center for Care Delivery and Outcomes Research, Minneapolis VA Health Care System, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Lee J.S. Cross
- VA HSR&D Center for Care Delivery and Outcomes Research, Minneapolis VA Health Care System, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Mary A. Driscoll
- Pain Research, Informatics, Multimorbidities, and Education (PRIME) Center, VA Connecticut Health Care System, West Haven, Connecticut, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Sierra Hennessy
- VA HSR&D Center for Care Delivery and Outcomes Research, Minneapolis VA Health Care System, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - John E. Ferguson
- Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Jessica K. Friedman
- VA HSR&D Center for the Study of Health Care Innovation, Implementation and Policy, Greater Los Angeles VA Health Care System, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Marianne S. Matthias
- VA HSR&D Center for Health Information and Communication, Roudebush VA Medical Center, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
- Regenstrief Institute, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Indiana University, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Laura A. Meis
- VA HSR&D Center for Care Delivery and Outcomes Research, Minneapolis VA Health Care System, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Melissa A. Polusny
- VA HSR&D Center for Care Delivery and Outcomes Research, Minneapolis VA Health Care System, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Stephanie L. Taylor
- VA HSR&D Center for the Study of Health Care Innovation, Implementation and Policy, Greater Los Angeles VA Health Care System, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Department of Health Policy and Management, UCLA School of Public Health, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Department of Medicine, UCLA School of Medicine, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Brent C. Taylor
- VA HSR&D Center for Care Delivery and Outcomes Research, Minneapolis VA Health Care System, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
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Hadlandsmyth K, Driscoll MA, Mares JG, Au V, Miell KR, Lund BC. Rurality impacts pain care for female veterans similarly to male veterans. J Rural Health 2023; 39:313-319. [PMID: 35170073 DOI: 10.1111/jrh.12646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Rural disparities exist in access to multidisciplinary pain care with higher rates of opioid prescribing in rural regions. Among Veterans, who have prevalent rates of chronic pain, women often evidence complex presentations, multiple comorbidities, and dissatisfaction with care. This study investigates the impact of rurality on pain care for women specifically, and whether this varies from the impact of rurality for men. METHODS A cohort of Veterans with chronic pain in 2018 was built utilizing VA administrative data. Variables of interest included: demographic, comorbidities, medications, and health care utilization for chronic pain. FINDINGS The cohort included 2,261,030 Veterans; 11% (n = 248,977) were women. Significantly fewer women (7%) compared to men (10.7%) received long-term opioids (adjusted OR = 0.77, 95% CI: 0.75-0.78). Men, relative to women, were also more likely to receive gabapentinoids and nonsteroidal ant-inflammatory drugs, whereas women, relative to men, were more likely to receive muscle relaxants and duloxetine. Women were more likely to receive most psychiatric medications. Rural women received more primary care visits compared to urban women (adjusted OR = 1.19, 95% CI: 1.15-1.22), but fewer women's clinic visits (a subset of primary care visits: adjusted OR = 0.69, 95% CI:0.67-0.71) and fewer pain specialty care visits (physical therapy, pain clinic, and mental health visits with pain codes). Rural effects did not vary substantially between women and men. CONCLUSIONS Rural-dwelling Veterans received more pain and psychiatric medications compared to urban Veterans and fewer specialty care visits. Rural Veterans may benefit from increased access to specialty chronic pain care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine Hadlandsmyth
- Office of Rural Health, Veterans Rural Health Resource Center, Iowa City VA Health Care System, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
- Center for Access and Delivery Research and Evaluation (CADRE), Iowa City VA Health Care System, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
- Department of Anesthesia, University of Iowa, Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
| | - Mary A Driscoll
- Pain Research, Informatics, Multimorbidities, and Education (PRIME) Center, VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Jasmine G Mares
- Department of Anesthesia, University of Iowa, Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
| | - Vanessa Au
- Office of Rural Health, Veterans Rural Health Resource Center, Iowa City VA Health Care System, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
- Center for Access and Delivery Research and Evaluation (CADRE), Iowa City VA Health Care System, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
| | - Kelly Richardson Miell
- Office of Rural Health, Veterans Rural Health Resource Center, Iowa City VA Health Care System, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
- Center for Access and Delivery Research and Evaluation (CADRE), Iowa City VA Health Care System, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
| | - Brian C Lund
- Office of Rural Health, Veterans Rural Health Resource Center, Iowa City VA Health Care System, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
- Center for Access and Delivery Research and Evaluation (CADRE), Iowa City VA Health Care System, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
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Cáceres‐Matos R, Gil‐García E, López‐Millán JM, Martínez‐Navas Á, Peña I, Cabrera‐León A. Profiles of adult people in a Spanish sample with chronic pain: Cluster analysis. J Adv Nurs 2022; 78:2837-2848. [PMID: 35285540 PMCID: PMC9540400 DOI: 10.1111/jan.15201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2021] [Revised: 01/30/2022] [Accepted: 02/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
AIM To establish groups of people with chronic non-cancer pain according to the impairment caused by pain and to identify factors associated with the group with a higher level of impairment. BACKGROUND Knowing the profiles of people who suffer from chronic non-cancer pain could make it possible to direct their treatment and to detect associated risks. DESIGN A cross-sectional study. METHODS A sample of 395 people with chronic non-cancer pain was collected in Pain Units and Primary Healthcare Centres in southern Spain (January to March 2020). A cluster analysis was performed to divide the population into groups and a binary logistic regression model was established to determine factors associated with the group with a higher level of impairment. RESULTS Two groups were identified: lower level of impairment due to pain, characterized by being 45-65 years old, not medicated with opioids or anxiolytics, employed and with a mild level of impact on daily life; and higher level of impairment characterized by being older than 65 years old, medicated with opioids and anxiolytics, retired or on medical leave and with a severe impact on daily life. In addition, among women, being widowed, single or a smoker are risk factors for belonging to the group with a higher level of impairment; being smokers or consuming alcohol three or less times a week would be risk factors in men. CONCLUSIONS Age, chronic non-cancer pain impact on daily life, work situation and the consumption of opioid drugs and/or anxiolytics are factors that appear to influence the level of impairment due to chronic pain. IMPACT These findings could help detect impairment due to pain in its early stages, determining the specific needs of each person.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rocío Cáceres‐Matos
- Nursing Department, Faculty of Nursing, Physiotherapy and PodiatryUniversity of SevilleSevilleSpain
| | - Eugenia Gil‐García
- Nursing Department, Faculty of Nursing, Physiotherapy and PodiatryUniversity of SevilleSevilleSpain
| | | | | | - Isaac Peña
- Pain Department of the Virgen del Rocío University HospitalSevilleSpain
| | - Andrés Cabrera‐León
- Andalusian School of Public HealthGranadaSpain
- Biomedical Research Networking Centre on Public Health and Epidemiology (CIBERESP, Spanish Acronym)MadridSpain
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11
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West MT, Tamba GP, Thawani R, Drew A, Wilde NV, Graff JN, Mannino R. Gender and Patient Satisfaction in a Veterans Health Administration Outpatient Chemotherapy Unit. Fed Pract 2022; 39:e0292. [PMID: 36426107 PMCID: PMC9662310 DOI: 10.12788/fp.0292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Our objective was to explore whether differences in patient satisfaction based on gender exist at the Veterans Affairs Portland Health Care System (VAPHCS) outpatient chemotherapy infusion unit. METHODS Veterans who received outpatient infusion treatments at the VAPHCS outpatient chemotherapy infusion unit from 2018 to 2020 were invited to take an anonymous survey. Response differences were analyzed using Fisher exact and Welch t tests. Male and female patient lists were first generated based on Computerized Patient Record System designation, then defined and results reported based on gender self-identification from survey responses. RESULTS The survey was conducted over a 2-week period during January and February of 2021. In total, 69 veterans were contacted: 21 (70%) of 30 female and 20 (51%) of 39 male veterans completed the survey. Most (62%) female patients were aged < 65 years, and 52% were treated for breast cancer. Most (90%) male patients were aged ≥ 65 years, and most commonly treated for prostate cancer (20%) or a hematologic malignancy (20%). Using our survey, patient satisfaction (SD) was 8.7 (2.2) on a 10-point scale among women, and 9.6 (0.6) among men (P = .11). History of sexual abuse or harassment was reported by 86% of women compared with 10% of men (P < .001). Women reported feeling uncomfortable around other patients in the infusion unit compared with men (29% vs 0%; P = .02) and discomfort in relaying uncomfortable feelings to a clinician (29% vs 0%; P = .02). CONCLUSIONS Gender seems to be related to how veterans with cancer perceive their ambulatory cancer care. This may be due to the combination of a high history of sexual abuse and/or harassment among women who represent a minority of the total infusion unit population, the majority of whom receive treatment for a primarily gender-specific breast malignancy. Analysis was limited by the small sample size of women, many with advanced malignancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Malinda T West
- Veterans Affairs Portland Health Care System, Oregon
- Knight Cancer Institute, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland
| | - Gagah P Tamba
- Veterans Affairs Portland Health Care System, Oregon
| | - Rajat Thawani
- Veterans Affairs Portland Health Care System, Oregon
- Knight Cancer Institute, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland
| | - Antonene Drew
- Veterans Affairs Portland Health Care System, Oregon
| | | | - Julie N Graff
- Veterans Affairs Portland Health Care System, Oregon
- Knight Cancer Institute, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland
| | - Rosemarie Mannino
- Veterans Affairs Portland Health Care System, Oregon
- Knight Cancer Institute, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland
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12
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Peppard SW, Burkard J, Georges J, Dye J. The Lived Experience of Military Women With Chronic Pain: A Phenomenological Study. Mil Med 2022; 188:1199-1206. [PMID: 35596551 PMCID: PMC9384100 DOI: 10.1093/milmed/usac134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2021] [Revised: 01/27/2022] [Accepted: 05/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Chronic pain, a persistent or recurrent pain lasting more than 3 months, is a widespread problem among military women due to combat-related injuries and post-deployment stressors. Risk factors associated with chronic pain include gender, mental health, post-traumatic stress disorder, and prior physical or military sexual trauma. The most common prevalence of chronic pain is musculoskeletal (e.g., low back and neck), migraine, osteoarthritis, and fibromyalgia. Following deployment, 25% of military women are at risk for chronic pain. Military women are prescribed opioids for pain at a higher rate than men and are at risk for prescription opioid addiction. The unique medical needs of military women, including chronic pain, are poorly understood by health care providers and need to be addressed to achieve full integration into the military. The purpose of this study was to explore a typical day for military women living with chronic pain by examining the participants’ daily life experiences. Material and Methods Using van Manen’s approach, 13 active duty, retired, and veteran women were interviewed to explore these lived experiences. The study was approved by the Institutional Review Board at the University of San Diego. Results Eight themes emerged from an analysis of the participants’ experiences: (1) chronic pain is a frustrating, persistent, daily, and an hourly struggle; (2) resilience in living with chronic pain is the new normal; (3) mission first and the impact of invisible pain; (4) self-care management and internal locus of control with nonpharmacological therapies; (5) pain accepted and managed to improve quality of life; (6) coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) diminished social interactions; (7) pain of sexual trauma is not reported; and (8) disparities in health care due to self-perception of provider bias as pain is not understood. Conclusions The study generated new knowledge in Force Health Protection, ensuring (1) a fit and operational readiness force; (2) pre- to post-deployment care for women warriors; and (3) access to health care. The study findings supported previous research and could help direct future research into nursing, medicine, and allied health treatments for military and veterans’ gender-specific health care, education, and training. Furthermore, the military women in this study provided insight into the need for future research to explore unconscious gender bias, health disparities, and a raised awareness of military women living with chronic pain. Findings from this study merit further exploration using other qualitative research methodologies including mixed methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra W Peppard
- Hahn School of Nursing and Health Science, University of San Diego, San Diego, CA 92110-2492, USA
| | - Joseph Burkard
- Hahn School of Nursing and Health Science, University of San Diego, San Diego, CA 92110-2492, USA
| | - Jane Georges
- Hahn School of Nursing and Health Science, University of San Diego, San Diego, CA 92110-2492, USA
| | - Judy Dye
- School of Nursing, San Diego State University, San Diego, CA 92182-4158, USA
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13
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Trego LL, Wilson C. A Social Ecological Model for Military Women's Health. Womens Health Issues 2021; 31 Suppl 1:S11-S21. [DOI: 10.1016/j.whi.2020.12.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2019] [Revised: 12/08/2020] [Accepted: 12/23/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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14
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Gaffey AE, Burg MM, Rosman L, Portnoy GA, Brandt CA, Cavanagh CE, Skanderson M, Dziura J, Mattocks KM, Bastian LA, Haskell SG. Baseline Characteristics from the Women Veterans Cohort Study: Gender Differences and Similarities in Health and Healthcare Utilization. J Womens Health (Larchmt) 2021; 30:944-955. [PMID: 33439756 PMCID: PMC8290312 DOI: 10.1089/jwh.2020.8732] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: With the unprecedented expansion of women's roles in the U.S. military during recent (post-9/11) conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan, the number of women seeking healthcare through the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) has increased substantially. Women Veterans often present as medically complex due to multiple medical, mental health, and psychosocial comorbidities, and consequently may be underserved. Thus, we conducted the nationwide Women Veterans Cohort Study (WVCS) to examine post-9/11 Veterans' unique healthcare needs and to identify potential disparities in health outcomes and care. Methods: We present baseline data from a comprehensive questionnaire battery that was administered from 2016 to 2019 to a national sample of post-9/11 men and women Veterans who enrolled in Veterans Affairs care (WVCS2). Data were analyzed for descriptives and to compare characteristics by gender, including demographics; health risk factors and symptoms of cardiovascular disease, chronic pain, and mental health; healthcare utilization, access, and insurance. Results: WVCS2 included 1,141 Veterans (51% women). Women were younger, more diverse, and with higher educational attainment than men. Women also endorsed lower traditional cardiovascular risk factors and comorbidities (e.g., weight, hypertension) and greater nontraditional cardiovascular risk factors (e.g., trauma, psychological symptoms). More women reported single-site pain (e.g., neck, stomach, pelvic) and multisite pain, but did not differ from men in posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms or treatment for PTSD. Women seek care at VHA medical centers more frequently, often combined with outside health services, but do not significantly differ from men in their insurance coverage. Conclusion: Overall, this investigation indicates substantial variation in risk factors, health outcomes, and healthcare utilization among post-9/11 men and women Veterans. Further research is needed to determine best practices for managing women Veterans in the VHA healthcare system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allison E. Gaffey
- VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine (Cardiovascular Medicine), Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
- Pain Research, Informatics, Multimorbidities and Education (PRIME) Center of Innovation, VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Matthew M. Burg
- VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine (Cardiovascular Medicine), Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
- Pain Research, Informatics, Multimorbidities and Education (PRIME) Center of Innovation, VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut, USA
- Department of Anesthesiology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Lindsey Rosman
- Division of Cardiology, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Galina A. Portnoy
- VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut, USA
- Pain Research, Informatics, Multimorbidities and Education (PRIME) Center of Innovation, VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Cynthia A. Brandt
- VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut, USA
- Pain Research, Informatics, Multimorbidities and Education (PRIME) Center of Innovation, VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut, USA
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Casey E. Cavanagh
- Department of Psychiatry and Neurobehavioral Sciences, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| | | | - James Dziura
- VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut, USA
- Pain Research, Informatics, Multimorbidities and Education (PRIME) Center of Innovation, VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut, USA
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Kristin M. Mattocks
- Pain Research, Informatics, Multimorbidities and Education (PRIME) Center of Innovation, VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut, USA
- Research and Development, VA Central Western Massachusetts and Department of Quantitative Health Science, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Leeds, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Lori A. Bastian
- VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut, USA
- Pain Research, Informatics, Multimorbidities and Education (PRIME) Center of Innovation, VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine (General), Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Sally G. Haskell
- VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut, USA
- Pain Research, Informatics, Multimorbidities and Education (PRIME) Center of Innovation, VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine (General), Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
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15
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Active Long-term Care Strategies in a Group Setting for Chronic Spine Pain in 3 United States Military Veterans: A Case Series. J Chiropr Med 2020; 19:188-193. [PMID: 33362442 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcm.2020.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2019] [Revised: 06/02/2020] [Accepted: 06/17/2020] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective The purpose of this article is to describe the management of chronic spine pain in 3 United States military veterans who participated in extended courses of chiropractic care that focused on active care strategies in a group setting. Clinical Features A 68-year old male veteran (case 1) with a 90% service-connected disability rating presented with chronic neck and lower back pain. An 82-year old male veteran (case 2) with a 20% service-connected disability rating presented with chronic neck and upper back pain. A 66-year old male veteran (case 3) presented with a 10% service-connected disability with chronic episodic back and neck pain. Each veteran described a desire to maintain ongoing chiropractic treatments after completion of a course of chiropractic care in which maximal therapeutic gain had been determined. Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) Patient Interference Short Form 6b (PPI), PROMIS Physical Function Short Form 10b (PPF), and Pain, Enjoyment, and General Activity (PEG) outcome measurement tools were used to track response to care. Interventions and Outcome Each veteran participated in an extended course of chiropractic visits consisting of group pain education, group cognitive behavioral strategies, group exercise, group mind-body self-regulation therapy, and optional individual manual therapy. Case 1 completed 8 extended chiropractic visits in 12 months and reported no change in PPI scores, improvement in PPF scores, and worsening PEG scores. Cases 2 and 3 completed 6 extended chiropractic visits each over a 12-month period and reported improvements in PPI, PPF, and PEG scores. Conclusion This article describes the responses of 3 veterans with chronic spine pain participating in long-term care using chiropractic visits in a group setting that focused on active care strategies. Our group-based, active care approach differs from those described in literature, which commonly focus on visits with a strong emphasis on manual therapy in 1-on-1 patient encounters.
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16
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Behar-Zusman V, Chavez JV, Gattamorta K. Developing a Measure of the Impact of COVID-19 Social Distancing on Household Conflict and Cohesion. FAMILY PROCESS 2020; 59:1045-1059. [PMID: 32621755 PMCID: PMC7362045 DOI: 10.1111/famp.12579] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
This report introduces the COVID-19 Family Environment Scale (CHES), which aims to measure the impact of social distancing due to COVID-19 on household conflict and cohesion. Existing measures do not capture household experiences relevant to the pandemic, in which families are largely confined to their homes while sharing a life-threatening situation. Using best practice guidelines, we developed a pool of items and revised them with review by a panel of experts, and cognitive interviewing with community respondents. We administered the CHES by online survey to 3,965 adults. The CHES consists of 15 items for each of two subscales, household conflict (α = .847) and household cohesion (α = .887). Exploratory factor analysis yielded two factors, corresponding to the intended conflict and cohesion items, which accounted for 29% of variance. Confirmatory factor analysis partially supported the 2-factor model (RMSEA = .057; CFI = .729, TLI = .708, and SRMR = .098). The CHES also contains 25 optional items to describe respondent and household characteristics, and household-level COVID-19 exposure. The CHES, publicly available at https://elcentro.sonhs.miami.edu/research/measures-library/covid-19/index.html, provides a tool for measuring the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on important determinants of resilience in the face of major stressful events. Further work is needed to address the factor structure and establish validity of the CHES.
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18
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Naylor JC, Wagner HR, Johnston C, Elbogen EE, Brancu M, Marx CE, Strauss JL. Pain Intensity and Pain Interference in Male and Female Iraq/Afghanistan-era Veterans. Womens Health Issues 2019; 29 Suppl 1:S24-S31. [PMID: 31253239 DOI: 10.1016/j.whi.2019.04.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2018] [Revised: 04/24/2019] [Accepted: 04/24/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chronic pain conditions are common among both male and female Iraq/Afghanistan-era veterans and can have substantial negative impacts on quality of life and function. Although in general women tend to report higher levels of pain intensity than men, findings remain mixed on whether gender differences in pain exist in Iraq/Afghanistan-era veterans. Additionally, the relationships between functional impairment, pain intensity, and gender remain unknown. METHODS This project examined gender differences in pain intensity and pain interference in 875 male and female Iraq/Afghanistan-era veterans. Nonparametric Wilcoxon rank-tests examined gender differences in pain scores. Multivariable generalized linear regression modeling was used to evaluate the magnitude of pain intensity and interference across levels of chronicity and gender, and to evaluate the role of chronicity in gender effects in measures of pain and function. RESULTS Pain intensity and interference scores were significantly greater among both male and female veterans reporting chronic pain relative to acute pain. Women veterans endorsed higher levels of pain intensity and pain interference compared with men. Results derived from multivariable analyses implicated pain intensity as a factor underlying gender differences in functional impairment among chronic pain sufferers, indicating that gender differences in functional measures were eliminated after controlling statistically for pain intensity. CONCLUSIONS Results demonstrate that the effects of functional impairment are impacted by pain intensity, and not by gender.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer C Naylor
- Durham Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina; VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness, Research, Education and Clinical Center (MIRECC), Durham, North Carolina.
| | - H Ryan Wagner
- Durham Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina; VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness, Research, Education and Clinical Center (MIRECC), Durham, North Carolina
| | - Cynthia Johnston
- Durham Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina; Pharmacy Practice Department, College of Pharmacy & Health Sciences, Campbell University, Buies Creek, North Carolina
| | - Eric E Elbogen
- Durham Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina; VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness, Research, Education and Clinical Center (MIRECC), Durham, North Carolina
| | - Mira Brancu
- Durham Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina; VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness, Research, Education and Clinical Center (MIRECC), Durham, North Carolina
| | - Christine E Marx
- Durham Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina; VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness, Research, Education and Clinical Center (MIRECC), Durham, North Carolina
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- VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness, Research, Education and Clinical Center (MIRECC), Durham, North Carolina
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- VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness, Research, Education and Clinical Center (MIRECC), Durham, North Carolina
| | - Jennifer L Strauss
- Durham Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina; Office of Mental Health and Suicide Prevention, Department of Veterans Affairs, Washington, District of Columbia
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Gibson CJ, Richards A, Villanueva C, Barrientos M, Neylan TC, Inslicht SS. Subjective Sleep Related to Post Traumatic Stress Disorder Symptoms among Trauma-Exposed Men and Women. Behav Sleep Med 2019; 17:492-501. [PMID: 29172723 DOI: 10.1080/15402002.2017.1409223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Objective/Background: Sleep difficulty is both a common symptom of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and a risk factor for the development and maintenance of PTSD symptomatology. Gender differences in sleep following trauma exposure have been posited to contribute to the increased risk for the development of PTSD among women, but the persistence and long-term contributions of these potential differences to the maintenance and severity of PTSD symptoms is unclear. Participants: Men and women reporting a history of trauma exposure (n = 112, 63% female) participated in this study. Methods: Subjective sleep complaints and PTSD symptom severity were assessed using well-validated measures (Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, PTSD Symptom Checklist). Multivariable regression models (full sample and gender-stratified) were used to predict PTSD symptom severity from global, subscale, and individual item sleep parameters, adjusted for gender, age, race/ethnicity, education, and body mass index. Results: In the full sample, traditional measures of sleep quality and sleep disturbance were associated with PTSD symptom severity. Difficulty falling asleep, poor sleep quality, and sleep disturbance from a variety of sources were related to higher PTSD symptom severity in men, while self-reported sleep disturbance related to nightmares and emotional regulation were associated with PTSD symptom severity among women. Conclusions: These findings add to the limited literature on gender-specific risk factors related to sleep and PTSD, and may inform intervention development and implementation related to PTSD severity among vulnerable adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolyn J Gibson
- a Mental Health Service, San Francisco VA Health Care System , San Francisco , CA , USA.,b Department of Psychiatry, San Francisco School of Medicine , University of California , San Francisco , CA , USA
| | - Anne Richards
- a Mental Health Service, San Francisco VA Health Care System , San Francisco , CA , USA.,b Department of Psychiatry, San Francisco School of Medicine , University of California , San Francisco , CA , USA
| | - Cynthia Villanueva
- a Mental Health Service, San Francisco VA Health Care System , San Francisco , CA , USA
| | - Maureen Barrientos
- a Mental Health Service, San Francisco VA Health Care System , San Francisco , CA , USA
| | - Thomas C Neylan
- a Mental Health Service, San Francisco VA Health Care System , San Francisco , CA , USA.,b Department of Psychiatry, San Francisco School of Medicine , University of California , San Francisco , CA , USA
| | - Sabra S Inslicht
- a Mental Health Service, San Francisco VA Health Care System , San Francisco , CA , USA.,b Department of Psychiatry, San Francisco School of Medicine , University of California , San Francisco , CA , USA
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20
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Family Strain, Depression, and Somatic Amplification in Adults with Chronic Pain. Int J Behav Med 2019; 26:427-436. [DOI: 10.1007/s12529-019-09799-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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Benedict TM, Singleton MD, Nitz AJ, Shing TL, Kardouni JR. Effect of Chronic Low Back Pain and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder on the Risk for Separation from the US Army. Mil Med 2019; 184:431-439. [DOI: 10.1093/milmed/usz020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2018] [Revised: 01/14/2019] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
AbstractIntroductionCo-morbid post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and low back pain (LBP) are common reasons for increased disability in the Veteran communities. Medical discharge from the military represents a considerable financial cost to society. Little is currently known about the impact of LBP and PTSD as longitudinal risk factors for medical discharge from Active Duty military service.Materials and MethodsA retrospective analysis of US Army Active Duty Soldiers from 2002 to 2012 was performed to determine the risk for medical discharge. Four levels of exposure for were identified as independent variables: no chronic LBP or PTSD, chronic LBP only, PTSD only, and co-morbid PTSD present with chronic LBP. Statistical analysis utilized modified Poisson regression controlling for sex, age, rank, time in service, deployment, mental health, sleep disorders, alcohol use, tobacco use, obesity, and military occupation. This study was approved by a Department of Defense Institutional Review Board.ResultsAfter controlling for potential confounding variables, the RR for chronic LBP and PTSD independently was 3.65 (95% CI: 3.59–3.72) and 3.64 (95% CI: 3.53–3.75), respectively, and 5.17 (95% CI: 5.01–5.33) when both were present.ConclusionsThis is the first study to identify a history of both chronic LBP and PTSD as substantial risk factors for medical discharge from the US Army. PTSD and chronic LBP may mutually reinforce one another and deplete active coping strategies, making Soldiers less likely to be able to continue military service. Future research should target therapies for co-morbid PTSD and chronic LBP as these conditions contribute a substantial increase in risk of medical discharge from the US Army.
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Affiliation(s)
- Timothy M Benedict
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Kentucky, 900 S. Limestone Ave Lexington, KY
| | - Michael D Singleton
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Kentucky, 111 Washington Ave, Lexington, KY
| | - Arthur J Nitz
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Kentucky, 900 S. Limestone Ave Lexington, KY
| | - Tracie L Shing
- U.S. Army Research Institute of Environmental Medicine, Kansas St, Natick, MA
| | - Joseph R Kardouni
- U.S. Army Research Institute of Environmental Medicine, Kansas St, Natick, MA
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Schuy K, Dors S, Brants L, Horzetzky M, Willmund G, Ströhle A, Zimmermann P, Rau H, Siegel S. Stigma and its impact on the families of former soldiers of the German Armed Forces: an exploratory study. Mil Med Res 2018; 5:40. [PMID: 30486881 PMCID: PMC6263547 DOI: 10.1186/s40779-018-0188-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2018] [Accepted: 11/12/2018] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Military families who have a family member with a mental illness see themselves confronted with many demands. Stigmatization is one of these challenges. Stigmatization affects not only the individual who suffers from a mental illness but also other family members via stigma by association and vicarious stigma. Stigma by association occurs when mental illness stigma spills over to individuals associated with an individual with a mental illness. Vicarious stigma describes the suffering of family members when they note the impact of stigma on their relative with mental illness. As a societal phenomenon, stigma plays out in social interactions and might therefore influence the social networks of families. It is also associated with healthcare utilization. METHOD Narrative interviews were conducted with 15 family members (partners, spouses, parents and children) of former soldiers of the German Armed Forces with a service-induced mental illness. The transcribed interview data were analyzed using a thematic analysis approach, in which codes were formed and emerging themes were systemized. Relationships between stigma, the families' reactions to it, its effects on their social relationships and its interference with their healthcare utilization were analyzed. RESULTS This study provides a detailed description of how relatives of former German soldiers with mental health problems experience stigma by association and vicarious stigma. Their perceptions are shown in a model that describes stigma-related attitudes, reactions to them and their effects on the social relationships of former soldiers' families. These families felt stigmatized because of the former soldiers' mental illness (mental illness stigma) and the military context in which it occurred (former soldier stigma). They reacted with nondisclosure, anger, acceptance and self-blame. Stigma was associated with smaller and weaker social networks that were characterized by social exclusion, self-segregation and conflicts with extended family, friends and colleagues. Stigma also affected the families' healthcare utilization. CONCLUSIONS Urgently needed anti-stigma campaigns, particularly in the civilian context, should address the stigmatization of both mental illness and the military participation of the families affected. They should consider the needs of both former soldiers with a mental illness and their families.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katrin Schuy
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Campus Charité Mitte, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 10117, Berlin, Germany.
| | - Simone Dors
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Campus Charité Mitte, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 10117, Berlin, Germany
| | - Loni Brants
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Campus Charité Mitte, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 10117, Berlin, Germany
| | - Marie Horzetzky
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Campus Charité Mitte, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 10117, Berlin, Germany
| | - Gerd Willmund
- Psychotraumazentrum, Military Hospital, 10115, Berlin, Germany
| | - Andreas Ströhle
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Campus Charité Mitte, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 10117, Berlin, Germany
| | | | - Heinrich Rau
- Psychotraumazentrum, Military Hospital, 10115, Berlin, Germany
| | - Stefan Siegel
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Campus Charité Mitte, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 10117, Berlin, Germany
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Driscoll MA, Knobf MT, Higgins DM, Heapy A, Lee A, Haskell S. Patient Experiences Navigating Chronic Pain Management in an Integrated Health Care System: A Qualitative Investigation of Women and Men. PAIN MEDICINE 2018; 19:S19-S29. [DOI: 10.1093/pm/pny139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Mary A Driscoll
- Pain Research, Informatics, Multimorbidities, and Education (PRIME) Center, VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - M Tish Knobf
- Department of Nursing, Yale School of Medicine, Orange, Connecticut
| | - Diana M Higgins
- Anesthesiology, Critical Care, and Pain Medicine Service/Research Service, VA Boston Healthcare System, Jamaica Plain, Massachusetts
- Department of Psychiatry, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Alicia Heapy
- Pain Research, Informatics, Multimorbidities, and Education (PRIME) Center, VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Allison Lee
- Pain Research, Informatics, Multimorbidities, and Education (PRIME) Center, VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Sally Haskell
- Pain Research, Informatics, Multimorbidities, and Education (PRIME) Center, VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
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24
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Godfrey KM, Bullock AJ, Dorflinger LM, Min KM, Ruser CB, Masheb RM. Pain and modifiable risk factors among weight loss seeking Veterans with overweight. Appetite 2018; 128:100-105. [PMID: 29885382 DOI: 10.1016/j.appet.2018.06.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2018] [Revised: 04/10/2018] [Accepted: 06/05/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Overweight/obesity and chronic pain frequently co-occur and demonstrate a bidirectional relationship. Modifiable risk factors, such as eating behaviors and mental health symptoms, may be important to understand this relationship and improve interventions in Veterans. DESIGN Cross-sectional. SETTING Veterans Health Administration Medical Center outpatient clinic. SUBJECTS The sample of Veterans (N = 126) was mostly male (89.7%), White (76%), and non-Hispanic (94%) with average age of 61.9 years (SD = 8.5) and average body mass index (BMI) of 38.5 (SD = 7.5). METHODS Veterans referred for weight loss treatment (MOVE!) at VA Connecticut completed self-report questionnaires, and electronic medical records were reviewed. RESULTS Mean self-reported pain rating was 4.5 out of 10 (SD = 2.3). Moderate to severe pain was endorsed by 60% of the sample. Veterans with higher pain intensity and interference reported higher global eating disorder symptoms, emotional overeating, night eating, insomnia severity, and mental health symptoms (all p's < 0.01). However, pain intensity and interference were not associated with BMI. CONCLUSIONS For Veterans seeking behavioral weight loss treatment, higher pain intensity and interference were associated with more severe eating disorder, sleep, and mental health symptoms. A better description of the clinical characteristics of Veterans with pain who participate in MOVE! highlights their unique needs and may improve treatments to address pain in the context of weight loss treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathryn M Godfrey
- The Drexel University Center for Weight, Eating and Lifestyle Science, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | | | | | - Kathryn M Min
- VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT, USA
| | - Christopher B Ruser
- VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT, USA; Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Robin M Masheb
- VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT, USA; Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA.
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Fenton BT, Goulet JL, Bair MJ, Cowley T, Kerns RD. Relationships Between Temporomandibular Disorders, MSD Conditions, and Mental Health Comorbidities: Findings from the Veterans Musculoskeletal Disorders Cohort. PAIN MEDICINE 2018; 19:S61-S68. [PMID: 30203016 DOI: 10.1093/pm/pny145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Objective Temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) have been associated with other chronic painful conditions (e.g., fibromyalgia, headache) and suicide and mood disorders. Here we examined musculoskeletal, painful, and mental health comorbidities in men vs women veterans with TMD (compared with non-TMD musculoskeletal disorders [MSDs] cases), as well as comorbidity patterns within TMD cases. Design Observational cohort. Setting National Veterans Health Administration. Subjects A cohort of 4.1 million veterans having 1+ MSDs, entering the cohort between 2001 and 2011. Methods Chi-square tests, t tests, and logistic regression were utilized for cross-sectional analysis. Results Among veterans with any MSD, those with TMD were younger and more likely to be women. The association of TMD with race/ethnicity differed by sex. Odds of TMD were higher in men of Hispanic ethnicity (OR = 1.38, 95% CI = 1.27-1.48) and nonwhite race/ethnicity other than black or Hispanic (OR = 1.29, 95% CI = 1.16-1.45) compared with white men. Odds of TMD were significantly lower for black (OR = 0.54, 95% CI = 0.49-0.60) and Hispanic women (OR = 0.84, 95% CI = 0.73-0.995) relative to white women. Non-MSD comorbidities (e.g., irritable bowel syndrome, mental health, headaches) were significantly associated with TMD in male veterans; their pattern was similar in women. Veterans with back pain, nontraumatic joint disorder, or osteoarthritis had more MSD multimorbidity than those with TMD. Conclusions Complex patterns of comorbidity in TMD cases may indicate different underlying mechanisms of association in subgroups or phenotypes, thereby suggesting multiple targets to improve TMD. Longitudinal comprehensive studies powered to look at sex and racial/ethnic groupings are needed to identify targets to personalize care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brenda T Fenton
- PRIME Center, VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut
| | - Joseph L Goulet
- PRIME Center, VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut.,Department of Emergency Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Matthew J Bair
- VA HSR&D Center for Health Information and Communication, Indianapolis, Indiana.,Division of General Internal Medicine and Geriatrics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana.,Regenstrief Institute, Center for Health Services Research, Indianapolis, Indiana
| | | | - Robert D Kerns
- PRIME Center, VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut.,Departments of Psychiatry and Neurology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA.,Department of Psychology, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
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Miaskowski C, Paul SM, Mastick J, Abrams G, Topp K, Smoot B, Kober KM, Chesney M, Mazor M, Mausisa G, Schumacher M, Conley YP, Sabes JH, Cheung S, Wallhagen M, Levine JD. Associations Between Perceived Stress and Chemotherapy-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy and Otoxicity in Adult Cancer Survivors. J Pain Symptom Manage 2018; 56:88-97. [PMID: 29524582 PMCID: PMC6015523 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2018.02.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2018] [Revised: 02/27/2018] [Accepted: 02/27/2018] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT The most common adverse effects from neurotoxic chemotherapy are chemotherapy-induced neuropathy (CIPN), hearing loss, and tinnitus. Although associations between perceived stress and persistent pain, hearing loss, and tinnitus are documented, no studies have examined these associations in cancer survivors who received neurotoxic chemotherapy. OBJECTIVES In this cross-sectional study, we evaluated for associations between perceived stress and the occurrence of CIPN, hearing loss, and tinnitus, in 623 adult cancer survivors who received platinum and/or taxane compounds. METHODS Survivors completed self-report measures of hearing loss, tinnitus, and perceived stress (i.e., Impact of Events Scale-Revised [IES-R]). Separate logistic regression analyses were done for each neurotoxicity to evaluate whether each of the IES-R subscale (i.e., intrusion, avoidance, hyperarousal) and total scores made a significant independent contribution to neurotoxicity group membership. RESULTS Of the 623 survivors in this study, 68.4% had CIPN, 34.5% reported hearing loss, and 31.0% reported tinnitus. Older age, higher body mass index, poorer functional status, being born prematurely, cancer diagnosis, and higher intrusion (P = 0.013), hyperarousal (P = 0.014), and total (P = 0.047) IES-R scores were associated with CIPN. Older age, being male, poorer functional status, a worse comorbidity profile, and a higher IES-R hyperarousal (P = 0.007) score were associated with hearing loss. Being male, having less education, a worse comorbidity profile, and a higher IES-R hyperarousal (P = 0.029) score were associated with tinnitus. CONCLUSION These findings suggest that increased levels of perceived stress are associated with the most common chemotherapy-induced neurotoxicities.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Steven M Paul
- School of Nursing, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Judy Mastick
- School of Nursing, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Gary Abrams
- School of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Kimberly Topp
- School of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Betty Smoot
- School of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Kord M Kober
- School of Nursing, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Margaret Chesney
- School of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Melissa Mazor
- School of Nursing, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Grace Mausisa
- School of Nursing, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Mark Schumacher
- School of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Yvette P Conley
- School of Nursing, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | | | - Steven Cheung
- School of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Margaret Wallhagen
- School of Nursing, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Jon D Levine
- School of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA; School of Dentistry, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
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Bastian LA, Driscoll MA, Heapy AA, Becker WC, Goulet JL, Kerns RD, DeRycke EC, Perez E, Lynch SM, Mattocks K, Kroll-Desrosiers AR, Brandt CA, Skanderson M, Bathulapalli H, Haskell SG. Cigarette Smoking Status and Receipt of an Opioid Prescription Among Veterans of Recent Wars. PAIN MEDICINE 2018; 18:1089-1097. [PMID: 27659441 DOI: 10.1093/pm/pnw223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Objective Cigarette smokers seeking treatment for chronic pain have higher rates of opioid use than nonsmokers. This study aims to examine whether veterans of Operations Enduring Freedom/Iraqi Freedom/New Dawn (OEF/OIF/OND) who smoke are more likely to receive an opioid prescription than nonsmokers, adjusting for current pain intensity. Design Cross-sectional analysis of a cohort study of OEF/OIF/OND veterans who had at least one visit to a Veterans Health Administration primary care clinic between 2001 and 2012. Methods Smoking status was defined as current, former, and never. Current pain intensity (+/- 30 days of smoking status), based on the 0-10 numeric rating scale, was categorized as no pain/mild (0-3) and moderate/severe (4-10). Opioid receipt was defined as at least one prescription filled +/- 30 days of smoking status. Results We identified 406,954 OEF/OIF/OND veterans: The mean age was 30 years, 12.5% were women (n = 50,988), 66.3% reported no pain or mild pain intensity, 33.7% reported moderate or severe pain intensity, 37.2% were current smokers, and 16% were former smokers. Overall, 33,960 (8.3%) veterans received one or more opioid prescription. Current smoking (odds ratio [OR] = 1.56, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.52-1.61) and former smoking (OR = 1.27, 95% CI = 1.22-1.32) were associated with a higher likelihood of receipt of an opioid prescription compared with never smoking, after controlling for other covariates. Conclusions We found an association between smoking status and receipt of an opioid prescription. The effect was stronger for current smokers than former smokers, highlighting the need to determine whether smoking cessation is associated with a reduction in opioid use among veterans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lori A Bastian
- Pain Research, Informatics, Multimorbidities, and Education (PRIME) Center, VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut.,Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Mary A Driscoll
- Pain Research, Informatics, Multimorbidities, and Education (PRIME) Center, VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut.,Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Alicia A Heapy
- Pain Research, Informatics, Multimorbidities, and Education (PRIME) Center, VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut.,Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - William C Becker
- Pain Research, Informatics, Multimorbidities, and Education (PRIME) Center, VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut.,Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Joseph L Goulet
- Pain Research, Informatics, Multimorbidities, and Education (PRIME) Center, VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut.,Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Robert D Kerns
- Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Eric C DeRycke
- Pain Research, Informatics, Multimorbidities, and Education (PRIME) Center, VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut
| | - Elliottnell Perez
- Pain Research, Informatics, Multimorbidities, and Education (PRIME) Center, VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut
| | - Shaina M Lynch
- University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Farmington, Connecticut
| | - Kristin Mattocks
- VA Central Western Massachusetts Healthcare System, Leeds, Massachusetts.,University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | - Cynthia A Brandt
- Pain Research, Informatics, Multimorbidities, and Education (PRIME) Center, VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut.,Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Melissa Skanderson
- Pain Research, Informatics, Multimorbidities, and Education (PRIME) Center, VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut
| | - Harini Bathulapalli
- Pain Research, Informatics, Multimorbidities, and Education (PRIME) Center, VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut
| | - Sally G Haskell
- Pain Research, Informatics, Multimorbidities, and Education (PRIME) Center, VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut.,Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
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Ketcheson F, King L, Richardson JD. Association between social support and mental health conditions in treatment-seeking Veterans and Canadian Armed Forces personnel. JOURNAL OF MILITARY, VETERAN AND FAMILY HEALTH 2018. [DOI: 10.3138/jmvfh.2017-0001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Lisa King
- Parkwood Operational Stress Injury Clinic, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - J Don Richardson
- Parkwood Operational Stress Injury Clinic, London, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neuroscience, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
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29
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Danan ER, Krebs EE, Ensrud K, Koeller E, MacDonald R, Velasquez T, Greer N, Wilt TJ. An Evidence Map of the Women Veterans' Health Research Literature (2008-2015). J Gen Intern Med 2017; 32:1359-1376. [PMID: 28913683 PMCID: PMC5698220 DOI: 10.1007/s11606-017-4152-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2017] [Revised: 06/08/2017] [Accepted: 07/27/2017] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Women comprise a growing proportion of Veterans seeking care at Veterans Affairs (VA) healthcare facilities. VA initiatives have accelerated changes in services for female Veterans, yet the corresponding literature has not been systematically reviewed since 2008. In 2015, VA Women's Health Services and the VA Women's Health Research Network requested an updated literature review to facilitate policy and research planning. METHODS The Minneapolis VA Evidence-based Synthesis Program performed a systematic search of research related to female Veterans' health published from 2008 through 2015. We extracted study characteristics including healthcare topic, design, sample size and proportion female, research setting, and funding source. We created an evidence map by organizing and presenting results within and across healthcare topics, and describing patterns, strengths, and gaps. RESULTS We identified 2276 abstracts and assessed each for relevance. We excluded 1092 abstracts and reviewed 1184 full-text articles; 750 were excluded. Of 440 included articles, 208 (47%) were related to mental health, particularly post-traumatic stress disorder (71 articles), military sexual trauma (37 articles), and substance abuse (20 articles). The number of articles addressing VA priority topic areas increased over time, including reproductive health, healthcare organization and delivery, access and utilization, and post-deployment health. Three or fewer articles addressed each of the common chronic diseases: diabetes, hypertension, depression, or anxiety. Nearly 400 articles (90%) used an observational design. Eight articles (2%) described randomized trials. CONCLUSIONS Our evidence map summarizes patterns, progress, and growth in the female Veterans' health and healthcare literature. Observational studies in mental health make up the majority of research. A focus on primary care delivery over clinical topics in primary care and a lack of sex-specific results for studies that include men and women have contributed to research gaps in addressing common chronic diseases. Interventional research using randomized trials is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisheva R Danan
- VA HSR&D Center for Chronic Disease Outcomes Research, Minneapolis VA Healthcare System, 1 Veterans Drive (152), Minneapolis, MN, 55417, USA. .,Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN, USA.
| | - Erin E Krebs
- VA HSR&D Center for Chronic Disease Outcomes Research, Minneapolis VA Healthcare System, 1 Veterans Drive (152), Minneapolis, MN, 55417, USA.,Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Kristine Ensrud
- VA HSR&D Center for Chronic Disease Outcomes Research, Minneapolis VA Healthcare System, 1 Veterans Drive (152), Minneapolis, MN, 55417, USA.,Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Eva Koeller
- VA HSR&D Center for Chronic Disease Outcomes Research, Minneapolis VA Healthcare System, 1 Veterans Drive (152), Minneapolis, MN, 55417, USA
| | - Roderick MacDonald
- VA HSR&D Center for Chronic Disease Outcomes Research, Minneapolis VA Healthcare System, 1 Veterans Drive (152), Minneapolis, MN, 55417, USA
| | - Tina Velasquez
- VA HSR&D Center for Chronic Disease Outcomes Research, Minneapolis VA Healthcare System, 1 Veterans Drive (152), Minneapolis, MN, 55417, USA
| | - Nancy Greer
- VA HSR&D Center for Chronic Disease Outcomes Research, Minneapolis VA Healthcare System, 1 Veterans Drive (152), Minneapolis, MN, 55417, USA
| | - Timothy J Wilt
- VA HSR&D Center for Chronic Disease Outcomes Research, Minneapolis VA Healthcare System, 1 Veterans Drive (152), Minneapolis, MN, 55417, USA.,Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN, USA
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30
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Combat exposure and pain in male and female Afghanistan and Iraq veterans: The role of mediators and moderators. Psychiatry Res 2017; 257:7-13. [PMID: 28709118 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2017.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2016] [Revised: 05/26/2017] [Accepted: 07/01/2017] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Veterans experience physical health problems associated with disability and poor quality of life following combat exposure (CE). Understanding the CE-physical health relationship, specifically pain intensity and somatic pain, may inform etiological models and interventions. This study examined the CE-pain relationship, associated mediators, and gender as a moderator. 2381 veterans at the VA San Diego Healthcare System completed paper or electronic self-report measures of pain intensity and somatic pain. Analyses examined associations of pain with CE and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and resilience as mediators of the CE-pain association. Moderated mediation models explored gender as a moderator of significant mediated pathways. Controlling for age, veterans with CE had significantly higher pain intensity and somatic pain, and PTSD and depression scores significantly mediated the CE-pain relationships. Gender significantly moderated the CE-pain intensity association through depression scores such that the indirect effect was stronger for female veterans relative to male veterans. CE is associated with pain intensity and somatic pain, with greater levels of PTSD and depression mediating the CE-pain link and gender moderating the depression mediated CE-pain association. Future studies should examine gender differences and mediators in the CE-pain relationships using longitudinal designs to inform etiological models and targeted pain interventions.
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Corcoran KL, Dunn AS, Formolo LR, Beehler GP. Chiropractic Management for US Female Veterans With Low Back Pain: A Retrospective Study of Clinical Outcomes. J Manipulative Physiol Ther 2017; 40:573-579. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jmpt.2017.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2017] [Revised: 06/08/2017] [Accepted: 07/07/2017] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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Matthias MS, Kukla M, McGuire AB, Bair MJ. How Do Patients with Chronic Pain Benefit from a Peer-Supported Pain Self-Management Intervention? A Qualitative Investigation. PAIN MEDICINE 2016; 17:2247-2255. [DOI: 10.1093/pm/pnw138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
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Ashrafioun L, Kane C, Stephens B, Britton PC, Conner KR. Suicide attempts among alcohol-dependent pain patients before and after an inpatient hospitalization. Drug Alcohol Depend 2016; 163:209-15. [PMID: 27141842 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2016.04.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2016] [Revised: 04/11/2016] [Accepted: 04/18/2016] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study examined (1) whether pain diagnoses were risk factors for non-fatal suicide attempts before and after inpatient hospitalizations in alcohol-dependent veterans, and (2) the characteristics of pain patients who attempted suicide. METHOD Administrative data from the Veterans Health Administration were used to identify veterans with an alcohol use disorder who had an inpatient hospitalization during fiscal year 2011 (n=13,047). Logistic regression analyses were used to examine the associations of suicide attempts before and after hospitalizations with pain diagnoses, demographics, medical comorbidity, and psychiatric comorbidity. RESULTS Bivariate analyses and analyses controlling for demographics and medical comorbidity, indicated that pain diagnoses were significantly associated with suicide attempts in the 365days before hospitalization (Odds Ratio Adjusted [OR]=1.22). This effect was not significant after controlling for psychiatric disorders. Pain diagnoses were not identified as risk factors of suicide attempts in the 365days following discharge. Subgroup analyses among only those with a pain diagnosis revealed that being younger (OR=2.64), being female (OR=2.28), and having an attempt in the year prior to hospitalization (OR=4.11) were risk factors of suicide attempts in the year following hospitalization. Additionally, younger age (OR=2.13) and depression (OR=3.53) were associated with attempts in the year prior to the hospitalization. CONCLUSIONS This study suggests that psychiatric disorders account for the relationship between pain diagnoses and past suicide attempts among hospitalized alcohol-dependent veterans. Pain-specific suicide prevention efforts may be better targeted at less intensive levels of care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisham Ashrafioun
- VISN 2 Center of Excellence for Suicide Prevention, Canandaigua VA Medical Center, 400 Fort Hill Avenue, Canandaigua, NY 14424, USA; Department of Psychiatry, University of Rochester Medical Center, 300 Crittenden Blvd, Rochester, NY 14642, USA.
| | - Cathleen Kane
- VISN 2 Center of Excellence for Suicide Prevention, Canandaigua VA Medical Center, 400 Fort Hill Avenue, Canandaigua, NY 14424, USA.
| | - Brady Stephens
- VISN 2 Center of Excellence for Suicide Prevention, Canandaigua VA Medical Center, 400 Fort Hill Avenue, Canandaigua, NY 14424, USA.
| | - Peter C Britton
- VISN 2 Center of Excellence for Suicide Prevention, Canandaigua VA Medical Center, 400 Fort Hill Avenue, Canandaigua, NY 14424, USA; Department of Psychiatry, University of Rochester Medical Center, 300 Crittenden Blvd, Rochester, NY 14642, USA.
| | - Kenneth R Conner
- VISN 2 Center of Excellence for Suicide Prevention, Canandaigua VA Medical Center, 400 Fort Hill Avenue, Canandaigua, NY 14424, USA; Department of Psychiatry, University of Rochester Medical Center, 300 Crittenden Blvd, Rochester, NY 14642, USA; Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Rochester Medical Center, 265 Crittenden Blvd. Rochester, NY 14642, USA.
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George E, Elman I, Becerra L, Berg S, Borsook D. Pain in an era of armed conflicts: Prevention and treatment for warfighters and civilian casualties. Prog Neurobiol 2016; 141:25-44. [PMID: 27084355 DOI: 10.1016/j.pneurobio.2016.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2016] [Revised: 03/23/2016] [Accepted: 04/08/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Chronic pain is a common squealae of military- and terror-related injuries. While its pathophysiology has not yet been fully elucidated, it may be potentially related to premorbid neuropsychobiological status, as well as to the type of injury and to the neural alterations that it may evoke. Accordingly, optimized approaches for wounded individuals should integrate primary, secondary and tertiary prevention in the form of thorough evaluation of risk factors along with specific interventions to contravene and mitigate the ensuing chronicity. Thus, Premorbid Events phase may encompass assessments of psychological and neurobiological vulnerability factors in conjunction with fostering preparedness and resilience in both military and civilian populations at risk. Injuries per se phase calls for immediate treatment of acute pain in the field by pharmacological agents that spare and even enhance coping and adaptive capabilities. The key objective of the Post Injury Events is to prevent and/or reverse maladaptive peripheral- and central neural system's processes that mediate transformation of acute to chronic pain and to incorporate timely interventions for concomitant mental health problems including post-traumatic stress disorder and addiction We suggest that the proposed continuum of care may avert more disability and suffering than the currently employed less integrated strategies. While the requirements of the armed forces present a pressing need for this integrated continuum and a framework in which it can be most readily implemented, this approach may be also instrumental for the care of civilian casualties.
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Affiliation(s)
- E George
- Center for Pain and the Brain, Harvard Medical School (HMS), United States; Department of Anesthesia, Critical Care and Pain Medicine, MGH, HMS, Boston, MA, United States; Commander, MC, USN (Ret), United States
| | - I Elman
- Center for Pain and the Brain, Harvard Medical School (HMS), United States; Department of Psychiatry, Boonshoft School of Medicine and Dayton VA Medical Center, United States; Veterans Administration Medical Center, Dayton, OH, United States
| | - L Becerra
- Center for Pain and the Brain, Harvard Medical School (HMS), United States; Department of Anesthesia, Critical Care and Pain Medicine, BCH, HMS, Boston, MA, United States; Departments of Psychiatry and Radiology, MGH, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Sheri Berg
- Center for Pain and the Brain, Harvard Medical School (HMS), United States; Department of Anesthesia, Critical Care and Pain Medicine, MGH, HMS, Boston, MA, United States
| | - D Borsook
- Center for Pain and the Brain, Harvard Medical School (HMS), United States; Department of Anesthesia, Critical Care and Pain Medicine, BCH, HMS, Boston, MA, United States; Departments of Psychiatry and Radiology, MGH, Boston, MA, United States.
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