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Updated: May 26, 2026
07:45
Estimation of Urinary Nanocrystals in Humans using Calcium Fluorophore Labeling and Nanoparticle Tracking Analysis
Published on: February 9, 2021
Summary
Urinary stone diagnoses are rising in the U.S. military, especially among women, impacting operational readiness. Service members with stones need counseling on risk reduction, particularly during deployments.
Area of Science:
- Urology
- Military Medicine
- Public Health
Background:
- Urinary stones (urolithiasis) cause significant morbidity and can affect military operational effectiveness.
- Previous studies noted a gender shift in civilian populations, with narrowing prevalence differences between men and women.
- Understanding trends in the military is crucial for readiness and healthcare planning.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze trends in urinary stone diagnoses within the active component of the U.S. Armed Forces over the past decade.
- To identify any gender-specific changes in urinary stone incidence.
- To inform risk reduction strategies for service members.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of incident diagnoses of urinary stones.
- Data extracted from military health records.
- Focus on the active component over a ten-year period.
Main Results:
- Overall rates of incident urinary stone diagnoses increased in the active component.
- A notable "gender shift" was observed, with a disproportionate increase among females.
- Approximately 60 service members annually required medical evacuation from combat zones due to urinary stones.
Conclusions:
- Urinary stone incidence is increasing in the U.S. military, particularly in women.
- This trend may impact military readiness and requires attention.
- Counseling on risk reduction, especially for deployed personnel with a history of urinary stones, is recommended.
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