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Fibromyalgia: Prevalence and Burden of Disease Among Active Component Service Members, U.S. Armed Forces, 2018

Scott T Hulse, Shauna Stahlman, Alyssa Fedgo

    MSMR
    |November 25, 2020
    PubMed

    Insights

    Fibromyalgia (FM) affects 0.15% of active U.S. military members, with higher prevalence in women, older individuals, and specific demographics. This condition significantly increases healthcare utilization and impacts military readiness.

    Area of Science:

    • Military Medicine
    • Epidemiology
    • Rheumatology

    Background:

    • Fibromyalgia (FM) is a chronic condition characterized by widespread pain and fatigue.
    • Understanding FM prevalence in military populations is crucial for readiness and healthcare planning.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To determine the prevalence and burden of fibromyalgia (FM) in the active component of the U.S. Armed Forces.
    • To identify demographic and occupational factors associated with FM in this population.

    Main Methods:

    • Utilized routinely collected data from the Defense Medical Surveillance System (DMSS).
    • Analyzed data for active component U.S. Armed Forces members from January 1, 2018, to December 31, 2018.
    • Characterized prevalence, associated conditions, and healthcare utilization.

    Main Results:

    • FM prevalence was 0.15% in the study population.
    • Higher prevalence observed in women (0.59%), older age groups (0.52%), non-Hispanic blacks (0.25%), Air Force personnel (0.21%), healthcare occupations (0.36%), and senior enlisted/warrant officers.
    • FM patients had significantly higher annual medical encounters (average 57) compared to the general patient population (average 13).
    • Musculoskeletal and mental health conditions were most commonly associated with FM diagnoses.

    Conclusions:

    • Fibromyalgia represents a significant health burden within the active U.S. Armed Forces.
    • The findings highlight potential readiness and retention concerns due to FM.
    • Targeted interventions and support for affected service members may be warranted.

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