Unique veteran medical needs

category: vs1

Unique veteran medical needs

* Nearly 30% of service men and women on active duty for 4 months or less in Iraq and/or Afghanistan (O.I.F. and O.E.F.) are at risk for neurological impairment from closed head injuries, according to the U.S. military.1

* Veterans who served in Iraq and/or Afghanistan are at elevated risk for heavy-metal poisoning linked to dust exposure and burn pits. Early heavy-metal poisoning symptoms can look like Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.

* Veterans are at twice the risk of cardiovascular disease versus their civilian counterparts.2

*Veterans who became accustomed to performance-driven medical care while on active duty have few options in the civilian sector that understand their prior care and long-term medical needs.

*Chronic opioid use for pain management promotes weight challenges, decreased bone mineral density, cardiovascular disease and depression.3

*Veterans with PTSD and/or a history of head trauma may experience mood swings, anxiety, sleep disturbances, depression, decreased sex drive and memory problems, among others.