Related Experiment Video
Updated: Sep 10, 2026

System for Focal, Closed-System Central Nervous System Injury
Published on: November 29, 2024
Combat-Deployment Status in Relation to Chronic Pain Interference and Hazardous Drinking Among U.S. Veterans
Joon Kyung Nam1,2, Kyle M White1,2, Victoria E Carlin1,2
1Center for Health Behavior Research & Innovation, College of Arts & Sciences, Syracuse University, Syracuse, New York, USA.
Background:
Chronic pain and hazardous drinking often co-occur among U.S. veterans. Research examining associations between pain interference and alcohol use has yielded mixed findings, with some studies linking greater pain interference to lower levels of alcohol consumption, and others linking it with increased odds of alcohol dependence. However, there has been a paucity of research examining these relations among veterans. The novel contribution of the present study was to test whether combat-deployment status moderated the association between pain interference and AUDIT total scores among veterans with chronic pain.
Methods:
Data were drawn from a Qualtrics Panel survey of 430 U.S. veterans with chronic pain who endorsed past-month alcohol use. Participants had a mean age of 56.7 years (SD = 14.81), and 76.3% were male.
Results:
Greater pain interference was positively associated with higher AUDIT total scores. Significant interactions were observed, such that this association was more pronounced among combat veterans, particularly among those reporting severe pain interference.
Conclusions:
Among veterans with chronic pain, greater pain interference was associated with higher AUDIT total scores, and this relationship was especially pronounced among combat veterans. Tailored interventions addressing pain interference and hazardous drinking among veterans may be warranted, with attention to combat-related experiences.
Related Concept Videos
Substance Use Disorders Affecting Sleep
Understanding the concepts of physical dependence,...
Stress and Mental Health
Individuals with depression often experience challenges in both their personal and professional...
Depressants
Alcohol is a common depressant that can induce a sense of relaxation and reduced inhibition at low doses. Contrary to its occasional...
Drug Dependence
CNS Depressants: Alcohol and Nicotine
Stress Prevention and Stress Management Techniques IV

