*EMBARGOED All research presented at the ACG Annual Scientific Meeting is strictly embargoed until Monday, October 19, 2015 at 8 AM (EDT).
Poster 1935 Association of Military Sexual Trauma, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder With Obesity in Female Veterans
Author Insight from Edward Weeks Dauterive, III, MD, Baylor Scott & White Hospital / VA Hospital
What’s new here and important for clinicians?
The prevalence of obesity and the associated medical conditions have been increasing over the past decades in both civilian and veteran population. We are seeing an increase in the number of veterans in the VA healthcare system due to an influx of new patients from recent military conflicts. One population that is increasing dramatically is the female population, many of whom suffer from various issues related to PTSD and military sexual trauma. This study showed a direct correlation between these disorders and increased obesity rates. It is important for clinicians, particularly primary care, to pay attention to this particular female veteran population and consider screening for these disorders to hopefully prevent obesity and its consequences.
What do patients need to know?
Similarly to clinicians, female veterans with PTSD and military sexual trauma may not be aware of their increased risk of obesity and associated medical conditions. This is of particular concern given recent studies and media coverage showing female veterans have significantly higher rates of sexual trauma than their male counterparts. Using this information, hopefully female veterans at risk can be educated on their risks and appropriate measures can implemented to prevent obesity and its complications.
Author Contact Edward Weeks Dauterive III MD, Baylor Scott & White Hospital / VA Hospital
Media Interview Requests:
To arrange an interview with any ACG experts or abstract authors please contact Jacqueline Gaulin of ACG via email jgaulin@gi.org or by phone at 301-263-9000.