[A LONGITUDINAL STUDY OF EX-POWS OF THE YOM KIPPUR WAR]

Trauma is a recognized pathogenic factor implicated in somatic and psychiatric morbidity and distress. The long-term consequences of trauma, particularly in aged survivors, are unclear.

The study examined the somatic and psychological health effects of war captivity, 42 years after the 1973 Yom Kippur War (YKW).

Forty-two years after the YKW, 157 ex-POWs and 100 comparable control veterans who fought in this war underwent medical examinations and completed self-report questionnaires assessing health and functioning. In addition, blood was drawn to assess CRP, metabolic syndrome and telomeres. Mortality data were retrieved from the Ministry of Interior computerized databases.

Ex-POWs suffer from higher PTSD rates (31% vs 5% respectably). Ex-POWs also endorsed more psychiatric symptomatology, diseases and health problems than controls. Moreover, ex-POWs suffer from more cases of inflammation and metabolic syndrome and have shorter telomeres. Finally, the mortality rates of ex-POWs are significantly higher than those of controls.

Forty-two years after release from captivity, ex-POWs are a vulnerable group and at higher risk for adverse health and mental health distress, morbidity and mortality and seem to be at increased risk for early/premature aging.

The effects of war trauma are profound, widespread and enduring for a considerable number of survivors. It is suggested to establish systematic monitoring of traumatized veterans' health to identify individuals at risk and provide early interventions to enhance health and prolong life and quality of life.