Update: Plant dermatitis among active component service members, U.S. Armed Forces, 2010-2020.

Area of Science:

• Occupational Health
• Dermatology
• Military Medicine

Background:

• Plant-induced dermatitis is a notable occupational hazard for U.S. military personnel serving in endemic regions.
• This condition leads to considerable disability, increased healthcare expenditures, and reduced military readiness due to lost duty time.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the incidence and trends of plant dermatitis among active component U.S. service members over an 11-year period.
• To identify demographic, occupational, and geographic factors associated with higher rates of plant dermatitis.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of diagnosed cases of plant dermatitis in active component service members from 2010 to 2020.
• Calculation of incidence rates per 1,000 person-years (p-yrs) and comparison across various demographic and military subgroups.

Main Results:

• A total of 73,725 cases were diagnosed, with an overall incidence rate of 5.3 per 1,000 p-yrs.
• Highest incidence rates observed in younger (<20 years), male, non-Hispanic White service members, Army and Marine Corps personnel, and those in combat occupations.
• Over half of cases occurred in summer; a significant proportion were concentrated at Fort Benning, Camp Pendleton, Fort Bragg, and Fort Campbell.

Conclusions:

• Plant dermatitis is a persistent issue within the military, with specific subgroups at higher risk.
• Targeted education on toxic plant exposure risks and protective measures is crucial for service members, particularly young individuals in combat training environments.