On the brain

About 1.64 million U.S. troops have been sent to Iraq and Afghanistan since 2001. Of those who have returned, 300,000 suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder or major depression. In addition to that, 320,000 have suffered a probable traumatic brain injury—most likely during a bomb blast in combat. These findings were part of a study conducted by the RAND Corp. research company, which was investigating the “Invisible Wounds of War.” Here are some of the results:

19 percent
Probable traumatic brain injury

14 percent
Post-traumatic stress disorder

14 percent
Major depression

5 percent
Probable traumatic brain injury, PTSD and depression

57 percent
Of those with probable TBI had not seen a doctor

53 percent
Of those with PTSD or depression had sought help

17 percent
Of soldiers returning to Iraq may have traumatic brain injuries

Source: RAND Corp.