Previous research has shown there is a negative relationship between Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and cognitive function (Yarlott et al., 2017). In the current study, we further investigated this relationship between PTSD and cognitive function with individuals seeking detoxification treatment, focusing on the potential moderating effect of Hepatitis C status. One of the ramifications of Hepatitis C is impaired cognitive function and Hepatitis C has been shown to be increasing in individuals with substance use disorders (Solinas et al., 2015, Huckans et al., 2009). In this study, we recruited 235 participants from Oriana House, all presenting with a substance use disorder. Oriana House is a medical detoxification center for individuals of Summit County. Cognitive assessments were administered along with questionnaires about past trauma, PTSD and Hepatitis C diagnosis to the participants at the detox center. The cognitive assessment battery included the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA). The MoCA is an indicator of mild cognitive impairment and assesses different cognitive domains including attention and concentration, executive functions, memory, language, visio-constructional skills, conceptual thinking, calculations, and orientation (Nasreddine et al, 2005). Given the established relationship between PTSD and cognitive function, we expect to replicate the negative association between these two variables. Furthermore, we expect that Hepatitis C status will moderate the relationship between PTSD and cognitive function.

Analysis is ongoing.