The Hidden Battle: Cardiovascular Disease in the Military and Its Lifelong Impact on Veterans

As Americans, we honor those who have served, but for many veterans, the battle continues long after they leave the battlefield. Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is one of the most common chronic conditions among veterans, with lifelong health and care implications. Veterans face unique risks due to the physical, mental, and environmental challenges encountered during service. Over 1 million veterans are currently diagnosed with CVD, but the reality is much more extensive.

Out of the 16.5 million veterans in the U.S.:

- 3.63 million male veterans live with cardiovascular disease.

- 138,600 female veterans are diagnosed with CVD.

- 10.33 million veterans (9.44 million men and 891,000 women) are affected by hypertension, a key contributor to CVD.

Military life subjects service members to intense physical demands, prolonged stress, and exposure to hazardous environments. These conditions significantly increase the risk of cardiovascular issues, including hypertension, coronary artery disease, and stroke. Veterans with mental health challenges like PTSD and depression are even more prone to developing cardiovascular conditions.

- 65% of male veterans and 45% of female veterans are diagnosed with hypertension.

- Male veterans, especially those over 45, often experience weight gain, inactivity, and smoking habits post-service, raising their risk for CVD.

- Female veterans encounter distinct challenges, such as under-recognized cardiovascular symptoms and limited access to gender-specific care. Many experience stress-related heart conditions not commonly seen in male veterans.

Key Causes of Cardiovascular Disease Among Veterans

1. Hypertension (High Blood Pressure):

- 65% of male veterans and 45% of female veterans have hypertension, a leading cause of heart attacks and strokes. Left untreated, it accelerates the progression of other cardiovascular diseases.

2. Obesity and Physical Inactivity:

- Over 80% of veterans aged 45-64 are classified as overweight or obese, which increases the risk of heart disease, diabetes, and other chronic conditions.

3. Mental Health and Substance Use:

- Veterans with PTSD have double the risk of developing cardiovascular conditions. Depression, affecting up to 25% of veterans, is also closely linked to poor heart health. High rates of smoking and alcohol use further exacerbate these risks.

4. Environmental Exposures:

- Military service often involves exposure to burn pits, toxic chemicals, and other environmental hazards, which have been linked to higher rates of cardiovascular and respiratory illnesses.

Caring for veterans with CVD requires comprehensive and integrated care strategies. Many male veterans hesitate to seek treatment due to mental health stigma or a culture of self-reliance, delaying essential care. Female veterans, meanwhile, face systemic barriers to receiving proper cardiovascular treatment due to under-diagnosis and a lack of gender-specific healthcare services.

How We Can Support Veterans with CVD and Hypertension

- Expand Preventive Screenings:

Ensure veterans receive regular blood pressure and cholesterol checks to prevent and manage cardiovascular issues.

- Integrated Mental and Physical Health Programs:

Provide holistic treatment plans that address both mental health conditions and cardiovascular risks.

- Promote Wellness Programs:

Encourage healthy lifestyle choices to prevent obesity and inactivity after service through structured wellness programs.

- Support for Caregivers:

Provide caregivers with the mental health and financial resources needed to manage the complex demands of long-term care.

- Hello Heart – A Digital Health Solution for Veterans:

Hello Heart empowers users to monitor their blood pressure and other heart health indicators proactively. The app offers real-time tracking and personalized insights, helping veterans make lifestyle changes to prevent serious complications. Programs like Hello Heart play a vital role in early intervention and long-term care.

Veterans have given their best to serve this country, and now it’s our responsibility to give back. With 3.76 million veterans living with cardiovascular disease and 10.33 million managing hypertension, the need for action is urgent.