PTSD risk ‘shows in the blood’

SOLDIERS suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder could be diagnosed with a simple blood test, say scientists.

Veterans affected by PTSD after experiencing combat have markers in their blood, which researchers can detect.

A study of military personnel deployed to a combat zone in Afghanistan showed those with an increased amount of small proteins called miRNAs in their blood were more likely to suffer PTSD.

This can lead to constant stress, flashbacks and recurring nightmares.

Study author Dr Laurence de Nijs, of Maastricht University in Holland, said the findings could lead to PTSD screening.