Gaffey AE, Redeker NS, Rosman L, et al. - By analyzing data from 1,109 participants in the Women Veterans Cohort Study (mean age: 43.8 ± 10.9 years; 52% women, 81% White), researchers investigated if insomnia contributes to posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD)-related risk for hypertension. They examined the cross-sectional links between PTSD symptom severity, recent symptoms of insomnia, and hypertension (defined as self-stated treatment for high blood pressure in the previous year). This study involved young and middle-aged Veterans. A link was identified between PTSD symptom severity and hypertension. PTSD symptom severity and hypertension were each found to be related to the insomnia symptoms difficulty falling asleep, difficulty staying asleep, and worry/distress regarding sleep problems. Experts noted that the link between PTSD and hypertension was mediated by insomnia symptoms. In Veterans, problems in falling asleep and maintaining sleep and associated distress may be especially harmful to cardiovascular health.