Military sexual trauma among male veterans: Impact on health and risk behaviors

Sexual trauma, including sexual harassment and assault, is a pervasive problem within the US military.  While prior research has largely focused on female victims, emerging evidence has indicated that the problem is just as substantial among men.  However, there is a dearth of knowledge regarding the impact of military sexual assault and harassment among men, including effects on physical and psychological health, and risk behaviors.  The current analysis examines the prevalence of sexual trauma among male veterans, the relationship with physical and mental health outcomes, and the impact on risk behaviors.  We also delineate differences between pre- and post-9/11 veterans.  Data were collected using a six-prong recruitment approach to reach veterans living in Southern California.  A total of 2,583 veterans completed a comprehensive survey, of which 1,840 male veterans were eligible for inclusion in the current analysis.  More than half (62%) of the sample served in the pre-9/11 era.  Approximately 9% of men reported experiencing sexual trauma during military service.  These men had significantly higher odds (ORs: 2.9-3.2) of reporting physical health, depressive, and PTSD symptoms.  Men with a history of sexual trauma also had significantly higher odds (ORs: 1.5-3.1) of reporting various risk behaviors, including taking unnecessary health or life risks, risky sexual behavior, and smoking tobacco.  These relationships were especially significant among pre-9/11 male veterans, indicating a potential long-term impact.  This analysis not only illuminates the negative health impact that sexual trauma can have on male military personnel, but also has important implications for long-term care for victims.