Prevalence Of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Symptoms Research Articles

Nature and prevalence of PTSD as per DSM-5 and ICD-11 after natural and unnatural deaths

The death of a loved one may lead to posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Although it is conceivable that unnatural losses (caused by e.g., accidents, homicide, or suicide) render people more vulnerable to PTSD than natural losses (e.g., caused by illnesses) this is an understudied issue. The current study sought to enhance knowledge about the presentation and prevalence of PTSD symptoms, in people confronted with natural, non-sudden and unnatural, sudden losses. Considering that PTSD is defined differently in DSM-5 and ICD-11, we compared PTSD severity and prevalence rates between these diagnostic systems. Self-reported data were available from a heterogeneous sample of 1064 bereaved people (Mage = 52.13 years, 86 % female). Confirmatory factor analyses supported the DSM-5-based and ICD-11-based symptom clustering. DSM-5 yielded higher prevalence rates of probable PTSD than ICD-11 criteria. PTSD cluster and total scores were significantly higher for participants confronted with unnatural losses than participants confronted with natural losses. Rates of probable PTSD (based on DSM-5 and ICD-11) were also higher in the former group. Confrontation with an unnatural loss was not associated with PTSD scores beyond other sociodemographic and loss-related variables considered. Results show that bereavement-related PTSD is assessed differently in DSM-5 and ICD-11. Cause of death affected PTSD but less strongly than anticipated.

Prevalence and Associated Factors of Post-traumatic Stress Disorder in Gangjeong Village Residents, Jeju-do, Korea

IntroductionMost studies on post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) have involved a small sample size and a specific traumatic event, with few studies reporting on subjects who have been continuously exposed to a traumatic event. Timely assessment and treatment are crucial for individuals chronically exposed to a traumatic event.Objectives This study investigated the prevalence of PTSD and associated factors in all residents of Gangjeong village, who, recently, have been exposed to a traumatic event for a prolonged period.MethodsThe subjects of this study were the residents of Gangjeong village, who have been exposed to a traumatic event related to the construction of the Jeju Civilian-Military Complex Port. The survey included items related to general characteristics and PTSD symptoms, which were assessed using the Impact of Event Scale-Revised, Korean version.ResultsThe prevalence of PTSD symptoms was 26.8% (95% confidence interval=23.54–30.04). Multivariate logistic regression analysis identified age, length of residence, and marital status as factors significantly associated with PTSD symptoms.ConclusionsThe prevalence of PTSD symptoms was higher among the study population than in the general population. Economically active age groups, people exposed to the traumatic event throughout their duration of residence in the village, and unmarried individuals were found to be more likely to develop PTSD symptoms. Mental, social, and financial support should be directed to the affected groups of individuals.Disclosure of InterestNone Declared

Prevalence of post traumatic stress disorder post-COVID-19 pandemic among healthcare workers in the pediatric emergency department in Maternity and Children Hospital in Alqassim

Objective: This study aimed to determine the prevalence of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) post-COVID-19 pandemic among healthcare workers (HCWs) in pediatric emergency departments in Maternity and Children Hospital in Al-Qassim, Saudi Arabia. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted among HCWs working in the pediatric emergency department in the Maternity and Children Hospital in Al-Qassim Region, Saudi Arabia. A self-administered questionnaire was distributed among the HCWs using an online survey. The questionnaire included socio-demographic characteristics, the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) to measure sleep quality, and the Impact of Event Scale (IES-R) to measure HCWs\' PTSD. Results: Of the 107 HCWs, 87.9% were females, and 56.1% were aged between 25 to 35 years. Around 29% of pediatric emergency HCWs were considered to have PTSD symptoms. Poor sleep quality was detected in 61.7% of HCWs. There was a significant association between PTSD symptoms and all domains of PSQI, including the total PSQI score. However, no significant relationship was observed between the level of PTSD and all socio-demographic variables. Conclusion: The prevalence of PTSD symptoms among pediatric emergency HCWs was 29%. PTSD greatly influences sleep quality, but there was no relevance with HCWs demographic profiles. Further longitudinal studies are necessary to establish the prevalence of PTSD and its effect on the sleep quality of HCWs in the study region.

Studying Higher Education within Armed Conflict Areas of Thailand: a Study of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

Objectives: To compare the prevalence of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms and examine the associated factors between students who studied at campuses located within the areas affected by Southern Thailand’s insurgency, and those in a nearby province.Material and Methods: This study was of a cross-sectional designed, conducted by self-administered questionnaires; using the Thai version of the PTSD checklist. The subject groups were Prince of Songkla University students who studied at the Pattani Campuses, which are located within the restive areas of Southern Thailand’s insurgency, and Hat Yai Campus, which is in a nearby province. Results: Of all 897 university students, 454 university students studied in Pattani. The prevalence of PTSD symptoms was 30.8%; which is statistically significant, compared with 17.6% of those who studied in Hat Yai (p-value<0.001). The associated factors, in both groups, were perception of stress from the violence due to the insurgency. Moreover, domicile and intention to resign were significantly associated with PTSD symptoms in the Pattani Campus group. However, gender, religion and satisfaction of university teaching were associated factors among university students at the Hat Yai Campus. Conclusion: Difference of PTSD symptoms among university students, who studied at the campus located in restive areas and a nearby province, was statistically significant. Both groups reported that perception of stress from the violence due to the insurgency was associated with their PTSD symptoms.

Prevalence of PTSD symptoms in children: The cost of the inadequate mental health system in Pakistan

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a disorder that affects not only military veterans but also the general public specifically children. They may replay the event and its aftermath, avoid talking about it, have low self-esteem, and be unable to develop meaningful connections. Mentally sick individuals in Pakistan frequently face an obstacle, as discussing mental health is taboo. Mentally ill people are publicly humiliated in Pakistan, and sufferers are occasionally referred to as “pagal.” Even parents ignore the symptoms of their children.

The Contributions of Pandemic Severity, Government Stringency, Cultural Values and Internet Usage to Post-traumatic Stress Disorder During the COVID-19 Pandemic: An Analysis of Data From 35 Countries.

Emergent symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) have been frequently reported in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, and may affect up to 17–18% of individuals. There is preliminary evidence that pandemic severity, cultural values, restrictions imposed by governments, and Internet usage may all influence the emergence of PTSD symptomatology. In this study, possible linear- and non-linear associations between these factors and the prevalence of PTSD symptoms across 35 countries were examined based on data from existing research. Evidence was found for a positive logarithmic relationship between the COVID-19 case-fatality ratio and PTSD (p = 0.046), a positive logarithmic relationship between power distance and PTSD (p = 0.047), and a trend toward a negative quadratic association with Internet usage (p = 0.051). No significant cross-national effect was observed for government restrictiveness. These findings suggest that strategies aimed at minimizing COVID-19 deaths, and at ensuring equitable access to essential resources, may be of use in reducing the emergence of PTSD symptoms at a population level during this pandemic.

Long-Term Post-traumatic Stress Disorder After Orthopaedic Injury: Prevalence and Risk Factors.

To evaluate the prevalence of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms in individuals who are further removed from injury (up to 3 years) and to identify injury-specific characteristics that are associated with an increased risk for persistent PTSD symptoms. Cross-sectional, retrospective cohort. Level I trauma center. Two hundred forty-three patients operatively treated for orthopaedic trauma between March 2017 through June 2018. Orthopaedic trauma requiring operative intervention. The primary outcome was score on the PTSD Checklist for the DSM-5 (PCL-5) survey. A score of 31 or higher was considered concerning for PTSD. Forty-nine of 239 respondents (20.5%) scored positive for PTSD. Multivariate analysis demonstrated an increased risk of PTSD for patients with a history of smoking and those who required delayed reoperation (greater than 90 days postoperative). White race and low-energy mechanisms of injury were associated with decreased risk of PTSD. Fracture locations were not associated with a higher likelihood of PTSD. The prevalence of PTSD symptoms in patients up to 3 years after surgery remains higher than the estimated prevalence of PTSD in the general US population. It is similar to previously documented rates of PTSD for patients less than 1 year after injury. Long-term complication requiring reoperation was associated with an increased risk of persistent PTSD symptoms. Orthopaedic providers should be mindful of PTSD symptoms not only in the immediate postoperative period but throughout the treatment course particularly for those with identified PTSD risk factors. Prognostic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Prevalence of post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms among patients with mental disorder during the COVID-19 pandemic

BackgroundThe outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic has caused extensive public health concerns, posing significant challenges to healthcare services. One particular area of concern is the mental health of patients with mental disorder, who are often a neglected group. The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of, and associated factors for symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) among patients with mental disorder in China during the COVID-19 pandemic.MethodsSelf-reported questionnaires were distributed to patients in four psychiatric hospitals in Beijing, China, between April 28th and May 30th, 2020. Information regarding sociodemographic characteristics, COVID-19 related factors, support, psychosomatic factors, and PTSD symptoms were collected using a series of scales, such as the Impact of Event Scale-Revised, the 7-item Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale, the 9-item Patient Health Questionnaire depression scale, and so on. Multivariate regression was used to identify factors related to PTSD symptoms.ResultsA total of 1,055 patients with mental disorder were included in the final sample. The prevalence of PTSD symptoms was 41.3%. Hierarchical linear regression demonstrated that fear of the pandemic and anxiety were shared associated factors for both symptoms of PTSD and their subscales. Additionally, age was an associated factor for the total PTSD (β = 0.12, p < 0.01), intrusion (β = 0.18, p < 0.001), and avoidance (β = 0.1, p < 0.05) symptoms; depression was an associated factor for the total PTSD (β = 0.13, p < 0.001), intrusion (β = 0.11, p < 0.01), and hyperarousal (β = 0.19, p < 0.001) symptoms.ConclusionsThe prevalence of PTSD symptoms was high among patients with mental disorder during the COVID-19 pandemic in China. This study found that age, fear of the pandemic, anxiety and depression are significant associated factors of PTSD symptoms in patients with mental disorder during the pandemic. We call for higher awareness and introduction of PTSD interventions to relieve the psychological stress in these patients.

The risk of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in Italian Highly Specialized Research Hospitals staff within two months of the pandemic declaration: an on-line survey.

The whole hospital system was stressed and at risk in the first phase of the pandemic. This study examined the prevalence of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in all hospital staff, medical and non-medical, within two months of the pandemic declaration. Survey concerned staff 4510 health workers of Italian Highly Specialized Research Hospitals. Subjects were asked to complete an on-line self-reported questionnaire, the PTSD Checklist 5 (PCL-5) and subjective perception of safety related to personal protective equipment (PPE). The sample included staff working in hospitals with or without COVID-19 patient admissions. Overall, 11.56% of the hospitals staff met the symptoms criteria for probable PTSD. The sample included 80.63% (3467) medical staff workers and 19.37% (833) non-medical staff workers. The 31.91% of participants worked in COVID-19 hospitals/wards. The prevalence of positive screening for PTSD symptoms in medical staff was 12.42% (426) and in non-medical staff, 8.59% (70). Among medical staff, anesthesiologists had a significant prevalence of PTSD (22.35%), followed by health care assistants/technicians (15.38%) and physicians (10.11%). Among non-medical staff, personnel involved in cleaning, catering, maintenance, security, and transportation, the symptoms of PTSD reached a rate of 12.24% and in administrative staff 8.47%. Risk factors associated with PTSD included working as an anesthesiologist, perceiving PPE as inadequate, and working in COVID-19 hospitals/wards. In the present study, as in other studies, the prevalence of PTSD symptoms among hospital workers was significatively higher than the lifetime prevalence of PTSD in the general population, showing the pandemic's incredible impact.

Pengaruh Mental Work Load dan Gejala Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Terhadap Kinerja Petugas Rescue di PT Freeport Indonesia

The purpose of this study is to analyze the relationship between mental workload and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) symptoms to the performance of PTFI rescue officers. The analysis includes descriptive analysis, bivariate analysis using Chi Square test, and Structural Equation Model (SEM) analysis using Partial Least Squares (PLS) program. The calculation of the data shows that PTFI rescue officers have a high overall mental workload perception, the prevalence of PTSD symptoms is 10.48%, and the overall average performance is appraised as meet expectations. The results of the SEM-PLS analysis shows that mental workload has a significant effect on performance (p-values 0.045 sig.5%) and PTSD symptoms have no effect on performance (p-values 0.885 sig.5%) but has a significant effect on mental workload (p-values 0.026 sig.5%). The Chi Square test shows a significant correlation between the predictor of assignment location with PTSD symptoms (p-values 0.019 sig.5%) and performance (p-values 0.032 sig.5%). The managerial implications then proposed to obtain healthy mental and optimal productivity of PTFI rescue officers, including handling PTSD symptoms, facilitating coping strategies, analyzing the influence of competence to mental workload, implement structured program to deal with traumatic events exposure, measuring the stress level, and measuring behavioral elements that support employees' perceptions as citizen of the organization. Keywords: mental workload, performance, PTSD symptoms, rescue officer

Post-traumatic Stress Disorder Symptoms and Its Predictors Among Healthcare Workers Following COVID-19 Pandemic in Southern Ethiopia: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Background: COVID-19 causes immense psychological pressure on communities in addition to physical misery. There is currently a scarcity of data on the psychological impact of the COVID-19 epidemic on Ethiopian healthcare workers (HCWs). Therefore, this study was aimed to assess the post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms and its predictors following COVID-19 pandemic among healthcare workers (HCWs) in southern Ethiopia.Methods: A hospital based cross-sectional study design was used among 387 randomly selected HCWs between September 25 and October 25, 2020 at four selected public hospitals in Sidama National Regional State, southern Ethiopia. Impact of Event Scale-Revised (IES-R) was used to collect data post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms. Logistic regression analyses with 95% CI were used to examine the relationship between independent and outcome variables.Result: The prevalence of PTSD symptoms was found in 56.8% of participants. Significant factors that increase risk of PTSD symptoms were being female (AOR = 1.91, 95% CI = 1.19, 3.05), married (AOR = 1.87, 95% CI = 1.12, 3.14) and nurses (AOR = 3.31, 95% CI = 1.66, 6.63). On the other hand, HCWs working other than emergency unit such as inpatients/wards (AOR = 0.43, 95% CI = 0.24, 0.75), OPD (AOR = 0.48, 95% CI = 0.24, 0.97) and other units (AOR = 0.49, 95% CI = 0.25, 0.96) less likely to be affected by PTSD symptoms.Conclusion: The current study showed high levels of PTSD symptoms as psychological challenges for HCWs. Sex, age, marital status, type of profession and working environment were significant factors for PTSD symptoms in HCWs during the pandemic. HCWs require mental health support during and after the pandemic.

Typologies of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder in the Bam Adult Population: 17 Years After Bam Earthquake

Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is one of the most important issues after earthquakes. Following the Bam earthquake, much of the literature has documented the prevalence and correlates of PTSD, but no study has evaluated predominant typologies of PTSD in this population. The present study aims to investigate PTSD typologies among adults exposed to the Bam earthquake after 17 years. The data were collected 17 years after the 2003 Bam earthquake using multistage cluster sampling, in a historical cohort study. In total, 917 people participated in the study. Latent class analyses (LCA) were conducted to identify predominant typologies of PTSD symptoms and associated correlates. The LCA identified four meaningfully different classes that were characterized based on the PTSD items. The common profile was class 1 with 36.1% of the study population, which reported medium on “Re-experiencing” and “avoidance” items and high for “dysphoria” item. Also, the results showed significant differences for marital status, death relative, and age across the four classes of PTSD. The results indicated after 17 years of the Bam earthquake, people who were exposed to this earthquake were divided into subgroups based on the severity and prevalence of PTSD symptoms. These findings highlighted the existence of experimental subgroups of PTSD symptoms following an earthquake, which can help us find those who are most in need of mental health services and also which can find specific interventions for any subgroups.

Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Symptoms 2 Months After Vaginal Delivery.

To assess the prevalence of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms and identify characteristics associated with it 2 months after singleton vaginal delivery at or near term. We conducted an ancillary cohort study of the TRAAP (TRAnexamic Acid for Preventing postpartum hemorrhage after vaginal delivery) randomized controlled trial in 15 French hospitals in 2015-2016. Women who had singleton vaginal delivery after 35 weeks of gestation were enrolled. After randomization, characteristics of labor and delivery were prospectively collected and paid special attention to postpartum blood loss. Posttraumatic stress disorder profile and provisional diagnosis were assessed 2 months after childbirth by two self-administered questionnaires: the IES-R (Impact of Event Scale-Revised) and the TES (Traumatic Event Scale). Associations between potential risk factors and PTSD symptoms were analyzed by multivariable logistic or linear regression modeling, depending on the type of dependent variable. Questionnaires were returned by 2,740 of 3,891 women for the IES-R and 2,785 of 3,891 women for the TES (70.4% and 71.6% response rate). The prevalence of PTSD symptoms was 4.9% (95% CI 4.1-5.8%; 137/2,785) with the TES, and the prevalence of PTSD provisional diagnosis was 1.6% (95% CI 1.2-2.1%; 44/2,740), with the IES-R and 0.4% (95% CI 0.2-0.8%; 9/2,080) with the TES. Characteristics associated with a higher risk of PTSD in multivariable analysis were vulnerability factors - notably migrant status and history of psychiatric disorder (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 2.7 95% CI 1.4-5.2) - and obstetric factors - notably induced labor (aOR 1.5 95% CI 1.0-2.2), being labor longer than 6 hours (aOR 1.7 95% CI 1.1-2.5), postpartum hemorrhage of 1,000 mL or more (aOR 2.0 95% CI 1.0-4.2), and bad memories of delivery at day 2 postpartum (aOR 4.5 95% CI 2.4-8.3) as assessed with the IES-R. Results were similar with the TES. Approximately 1 of 20 women with vaginal delivery have PTSD symptoms at 2 months postpartum. History of psychiatric disorder, postpartum hemorrhage, and bad memories of deliveries at day 2 were the main factors associated with a PTSD profile.

Childhood abuse and its association with adults’ mental health problems: a cross-sectional study among men and women in the Yangon Region of Myanmar

ObjectivesTo estimate the prevalence of emotional, physical and sexual childhood abuse, and symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and to examine the association between childhood abuse and adult mental health...

Post-traumatic stress disorder among persons with HIV who engage in heavy alcohol consumption in southwestern Uganda

BackgroundWe aimed to describe the prevalence of PTSD symptoms and its associated factors in persons living with HIV (PLWH) in Uganda who engage in heavy alcohol use.MethodsWe analyzed baseline data from the Drinkers Intervention to Prevent Tuberculosis study which enrolls PLWH with latent tuberculosis who engage in heavy alcohol consumption. Using the primary care Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) screening scale from the DSM-5 (PC-PTSD-5), probable PTSD was defined as reporting ≥3 of 5 assessed symptoms. We conducted the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test-Consumption and assessed demographics, smoking, symptoms of depression, and spirituality/religiosity.ResultsOf 421 participants enrolled from 2018 through 2020, the majority (68.2%) were male, median age was 40 years (interquartile range [IQR]: 32–47), and median AUDIT-C score was 6 [IQR: 4–8]. Half (50.1%) of the participants reported ever experiencing a traumatic event, and 20.7% reported ≥3 symptoms of PTSD. The most commonly reported PTSD symptoms in the past 1 month in the entire sample were avoidance (28.3%), nightmares (27.3%), and being constantly on guard (21.6%). In multivariable logistic regression analyses, level of alcohol use was not associated with probable PTSD (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] for each AUDIT-C point: (1.02; 95% CI: 0.92–1.14; p = 0.69); however, lifetime smoking (AOR 1.89; 95% CI: 1.10–3.24) and reporting symptoms of depression (AOR 1.89; 95% CI: 1.04–3.44) were independently associated with probable PTSD.Conclusions and recommendationsA history of traumatic events and probable PTSD were frequently reported among persons who engage in heavy drinking, living with HIV in Uganda. Level of alcohol use was not associated with probable PTSD in this sample of PLWH with heavy alcohol use, however other behavioral and mental health factors were associated with probable PTSD. These data highlight the high prevalence of PTSD in this group, and the need for screening and interventions for PTSD and mental health problems.

Effects of COVID-19 pandemic on the mental health of pregnant women

Objective: The negative consequences of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic on the mental health of pregnant women and the mental disorders it may trigger pose risks for the physical, cognitive and psychological development of infants as well as having risks in terms of the general health and functionality of the mother. This study aimed to investigate the effects of COVID-19 pandemic on the mental health of pregnant women and to evaluate the prevalence of psychiatric symptoms.&#x0D; Materials and Methods: The study included a total of 112 pregnant women who agreed to fill an online survey which was provided to them via e-mail. Online survey consisted of sociodemographic data form, questions related to COVID-19, Depression Anxiety Stress Scale-Short Form (DASS-21), and Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Checklist for Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders-Fifth Edition (DSM-5) (PCL-5). &#x0D; Results: The mean age of the participants was 31.06 years. The DASS-21 subscale score for depression was 4.20 (± 3.91) whereas it was 3.75 (± 3.50) for the anxiety subscale and 5.68 (± 3.81) for the stress subscale. Total PCL-5 score was 31.29 (± 16.85). Those diagnosed with COVID-19 during the pandemic were observed to show a higher rate of anxiety symptoms. Those who believed that they needed professional support for mental health during the pandemic showed higher rates of depression, anxiety, and stress symptoms. The prevalence of PTSD symptoms were found to be higher among participants who were not health care professionals and who thought they needed professional support for mental health during the pandemic.&#x0D; Conclusion: Determining the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on the mental health of pregnant women will be important to put early intervention methods in action and implement evidence-based practices.

Quality of life and post-traumatic stress disorder among adult females with cancer in Palestine: a cross-sectional study

ABSTRACT Background: Little research has been conducted on the quality of life (QoL), functional status, and traumatic symptoms related to the diagnosis and treatment of cancer in the Arab region, particularly in Palestine, where the psychological problems in patients with cancer are often neglected. Objective: The aim of the study was to assess QoL and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms among adult female patients with cancer attending Beit-Jala Governmental Hospital in Bethlehem. Method: Participants were recruited from 4 April 2015 to the end of July 2015. The sample included 253 female patients with cancer attending Beit-Jala Governmental Hospital in Bethlehem. Data were collected using self-reported questionnaires, including a socio-demographic data sheet, the European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire Core 30, and the post-traumatic stress disorder checklist for PTSD symptoms. Results: The current study showed poor global QoL (57.4%) and poor physical function (48.5%) for female patients with cancer. Insomnia, fatigue, and loss of appetite were the most troublesome symptoms that the participants complained about. The prevalence of PTSD symptoms was 3%. Regarding PTSD symptom severity, 2% reported severe symptoms, 23.3% reported moderate symptoms, and (68.8%) reported mild symptoms, based on a 1991 classification of PTSD symptom severity scores. Finally, Pearson’s test revealed a strong, statistically significant, inverse relationship between QoL domains and PTSD. Conclusion: The study found that the overall QoL of female patients with cancer was low and strongly associated with PTSD symptoms, suggesting that early detection and treatment of these symptoms is critical.

PTSD prevalence among resident mothers and their offspring in Rwanda 25\u2009years after the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi

BackgroundThe 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi was a major traumatic event affecting nearly all Rwandans. Significant psychological sequels continue to occur in the population 25 years after, with a high prevalence of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) found in women. Three groups are typically designated with regard to the Genocide against the Tutsi: those who were targeted and categorized as genocide “survivors,” those who were in the country during the genocide and were the “non-targeted” group, and those who were outside of the country, referred to as the “1959 returnees.” Each group experienced various traumatic events during and in the aftermath of the genocide. Offspring of the designated groups, currently exhibit symptoms of PTSD disregarding of being born in the years following the genocide. A number of studies have described the prevalence of PTSD in the general adult population. There is a lack of research comparing the prevalence of PTSD in women and their offspring among these three target groups, therefore, this study aimed to bridge the gap.MethodsWe conducted a comparative cross-sectional study with a sample of 432 mothers and 432 children in three categories: genocide survivors, in country non-targeted and 1959 returnees. Participant ages for children were between 14 to 22 years and for mothers, between the ages of 32 to 87 years. The UCLA-PTSD DSM-5, PTSD Check list-5 and Life events Checklist-5 were translated from English to Kinyarwanda and were used to assess exposure to trauma and the prevalence of PTSD symptoms in Rwandan mothers and their offspring.ResultsKey Results yield a PTSD rate of 18.8, 6.2, 5.2% within survivors, in country non-targeted, and returnees respectively with an average PTSD rate of 43.8% for parents, and 16.5% for offspring.ConclusionPTSD among the mothers’ groups and their offspring have been found, specifically in the offspring of genocide survivors. Considering these adolescents were not born at the time of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, the results suggest future studies should explore the precipitating factors contributing to the PTSD symptoms within this specific group.

Patient-Reported Psychological Distress After Spontaneous Coronary Artery Dissection: EVIDENCE FOR POST-TRAUMATIC STRESS.

High rates of depression and anxiety are reported among patients who have experienced spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD) but the incidence of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is unknown. The purpose of this study was to investigate symptoms of PTSD in women who have experienced SCAD. This cross-sectional pilot study included 14 female SCAD patients, mean age of 51 yr, who responded to standardized psychosocial questionnaires at a median of 35 mo post-SCAD. Patients were identified by cardiologists as having had a SCAD event and were concurrently invited to participate in a psychosocial group for SCAD survivors. Participants reported current symptoms of stress (93%), insomnia (57%), anxiety (71%), depression (36%), and PTSD (43%). Eight of the 11 women who reported having a mental health history (72.7%) indicated that their symptoms were related to having experienced SCAD. Health-related quality of life and social support were comparable with other all-female cardiac samples. Patterns of perceived control were more similar to those of patients with cancer than other cardiac patients in that SCAD patients ranked "chance" as more likely than "self-control" to impact medical outcomes. The prevalence of PTSD symptoms in this first-known assessment of post-traumatic stress among SCAD patients is concerning. The unexpected nature of SCAD and lack of known treatment options may play a role in patient distress. Future research is needed to accurately estimate rates of PTSD after SCAD and assess the benefits of treatment.

Post-traumatic Stress Disorder in Resident Physicians.

BackgroundResearch suggests that symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) may be common in physicians who have experienced a traumatic event, but it is unclear if medical residents suffer from similar symptoms.ObjectiveTo determine the prevalence of PTSD symptoms in the resident physician population of the University of British Columbia based on the new Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders-fifth edition (DSM-5) criteria.MethodA link to an online questionnaire containing 27 questions, including residency training and year, as well as the PTSD Checklist for Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders-fifth edition (PCL-5) was e-mailed and completed by the resident physicians of the University of British Columbia.ResultsForty-three residents completed the survey and 38 had complete data. Mean PCL-5 score was 10.3 for the 38 subjects. Differences between PCL-5 score and resident year yielded the following: postgraduate year (PGY)-1=8.6; PGY-2=16.5; PGY-3=3.6; PGY-4=4.0; PGY-5=7.7. With respect to the type of traumatic event and PCL-5 score, the following was observed: Death=5.3, Violence=13.8, Medical Error=8.0, Bullying=38.0, None=45.0. The Kruskal-Wallis test showed no statistically significant differences in total PCL-5 score for PGY or type of traumatic event. Regardless of post-graduate year or trauma experience, four subjects out of 38 (10.5%) had a total PCL-5 score of 33 or greater, while one subject (2.5%) had a score greater than 50.ConclusionThe results from this study conclude that resident physicians do suffer from PTSD symptoms at a rate higher than the average American population. As PTSD symptoms can often be very distressing and potentially affect work ethic negatively, further studies are indicated to better understand these symptoms and hopefully lead to better care in treating PTSD symptoms in resident physicians.