Posttraumatic stress disorder in peacekeepers: a meta-analysis

Area of Science:

• Mental Health Research
• Military and Peacekeeping Studies
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a significant concern for individuals exposed to trauma.
• Peacekeepers are a unique population with specific occupational stressors that may increase PTSD risk.
• Existing research on PTSD prevalence in peacekeepers shows considerable variability.

Purpose of the Study:

• To estimate the pooled prevalence of current posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) among peacekeepers.
• To investigate factors contributing to heterogeneity in PTSD prevalence estimates within peacekeeping studies.
• To highlight the need for standardized PTSD assessment protocols in this population.

Main Methods:

• A systematic review and meta-analysis of relevant studies.
• Searches conducted across multiple scientific databases (Medline, Web of Science, Traumatic Stress databases).
• Inclusion of 12 studies reporting PTSD prevalence estimates in peacekeepers.

Main Results:

• The pooled current PTSD prevalence among peacekeepers was estimated at 5.3%.
• Observed prevalence rates ranged widely, from 0.05% to 25.8%.
• Metaregression analysis failed to identify specific variables explaining the significant heterogeneity in study estimates.

Conclusions:

• Despite a pooled prevalence of 5.3%, significant heterogeneity exists in reported PTSD rates among peacekeepers.
• Methodological differences, including screening tools and assessment timing, likely contribute to this variability.
• The development and implementation of standardized PTSD evaluation methods for peacekeepers are crucial.