PTSD Might Lead to Sizable Weight Gain in Women

Women with post-traumatic stress disorder are more likely to be overweight or obese than women without the condition, a new study suggests.

According to the researchers, one in nine women will have post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) at some point in her life. That's twice as often as men. Women are more likely to experience traumatic events, such as rape, which carry a high risk for PTSD, the study authors said.

"PTSD is not just about mental health, but also has physical health consequences," said lead researcher Karestan Koenen, an associate professor of epidemiology at Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health, in New York City.  http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/news/fullstory_142714.html