Association of military life experiences and health indicators among military spouses
BMC Public Health Nov 20, 2019
Corry NH, Radakrishnan S, Williams CS, et al. - Researchers analyzed data from a US Department of Defense-sponsored survey of 9,872 spouses of service members with 2–5 years of military service—the Millennium Cohort Family Study— to analyze health indicators among military spouses using the Healthy People 2020 framework as well as to study the links of these health indicators with military experiences and psychosocial factors, to ultimately gain better knowledge on the overall health and well-being of military spouses. Each health goal examined, including healthy weight, exercise, sleep, and alcohol and tobacco intake, was met by the majority of military spouses. However, the healthy weight and the strength training goals were met by less than half of the participants. Better behavioral health outcomes were observed in relation to reporting greater perceived family support from the military, while poorer outcomes were observed in relation to having no one to turn to for support. The factors, including military-specific experiences, likely to be the contributors to physical health behaviors and outcomes among military spouses were unveiled. The chances of refraining from risky substance use were more in women and better overall health outcomes were seen in relation to greater education. Overall, improved health results may be obtained through enhanced social and military support and tailored programming for military spouses, and these steps may also contribute to the well-being of military couples. Such programming could also bolster force readiness and retention.
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