Chronic back pain and the incidence of smoking in US veterans

Background:There is a high incidence of smoking within the US veteran population when compared to the general population.  In addition, smoking continues to increase among those who are deployed to overseas theaters and those with mental health or substance abuse disorders.  Musculoskeletal conditions continue to increase in all veterans subgroups regardless of time of service.  Chronic low back pain continues to be at the top of the list of conditions treated by chiropractors within the VA system. Recent research supports the notion that smoking cessation programs are readily available and integrated in a variety of health care services.

Objective: The objective of this paper will be to report the outcomes of veterans presenting to a VA chiropractic clinic who have undergone an trial of treatment of at least 4 visits and to further evaluate and discuss the incidence of smoking in veteran patients, their overall outcome with treatment, and smoking cessation programs within VA.

Methods: To conduct a retrospective review of veterans presenting to a chiropractic clinic, the incidence of smoking within this group, and their outcomes with treatment.  To evaluate smoking cessation programs offered within VA.

Results: Over 1000 files were reviewed. Statistical analysis will include descriptive statistics along with confidence intervals

Conclusion: The incidence of smoking and chronic musculoskeletal conditions in veteran patients remains high.  Chiropractic providers play an important role in the treatment of veteran patients along with the opportunity to become an advocate for public health initiatives.