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Exposure to missile attacks: The impact of the Persian Gulf War on physical health, health behaviours and psychological distress in high and low risk areas in Israel

Author

Listed:
  • Soskolne, Varda
  • Baras, Mario
  • Palti, Hava
  • Epstein, Leon

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to compare residents of an area (Tel-Aviv), which was severely afflicted by SCUD missiles during the Persian Gulf War (high risk region), to residents of a low-risk region (Jerusalem) in terms of: (a) changes in physical health, in use of medical or psychological services, and in health behaviours during the period of the war compared to the preceding month; (b) levels of psychological distress (somatization and anxiety) during the war; (c) characteristics of persons at highest risk for psychological distress. Respondents were randomly chosen and interviewed by telephone (N = 545 in Tel-Aviv, N = 406 in Jerusalem). The respondents in both regions reported significant yet similar deterioration in physical health status, and an increase in detrimental health behaviours during the Gulf War. Tel-Aviv residents had significantly higher levels of psychological distress as compared to residents of Jerusalem: in somatization 18 vs 12% respectively (OR = 2.44, CI = 1.39-4.28), in anxiety 34 vs 26% respectively (OR = 1.62, CI = 1.1-2.42). In addition to place of residence, age, ethnicity, religiosity and self-assessed health were identified as characteristics of persons at greater risk for psychological distress.

Suggested Citation

  • Soskolne, Varda & Baras, Mario & Palti, Hava & Epstein, Leon, 1996. "Exposure to missile attacks: The impact of the Persian Gulf War on physical health, health behaviours and psychological distress in high and low risk areas in Israel," Social Science & Medicine, Elsevier, vol. 42(7), pages 1039-1047, April.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:socmed:v:42:y:1996:i:7:p:1039-1047
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