Acute Stress Disorder in Soldiers Injured During the October 7 War

Area of Science:

• Military medicine
• Psychotraumatology
• Combat psychiatry

Background:

• Identifying risk factors for Acute Stress Disorder (ASD) and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is crucial for soldier well-being.
• Previous research indicates various factors may contribute to stress disorders in military personnel.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify background variables, trauma history, social support, combat factors, and injury severity associated with ASD in soldiers.
• To detect soldiers at increased risk for developing stress disorders and PTSD.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional retrospective study analyzed 142 soldiers hospitalized for combat-related injuries.
• Multivariable logistic regression identified factors independently associated with ASD.
• Sensitivity analyses ensured robust findings by comparing ASD and non-ASD subgroups.

Main Results:

• A personal history of trauma significantly increased ASD risk (OR=6.49, P<.001).
• Combat exposure (OR=3.90, P=.004) and exposure to fatalities (OR=2.90, P=.011) were also significant risk factors.
• No association was found between demographic/social factors and ASD development.

Conclusions:

• Early identification of soldiers at high risk for ASD is vital, especially those with a personal trauma history.
• Intervention is required for soldiers exposed to combat fatalities post-war.
• Findings underscore the need for tailored support for vulnerable military personnel.