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Update: Heat illness, active component, U.S. Armed Forces, 2021.
MSMR
|May 24, 2022
Summary
Military heat illness rates remained stable for heat stroke but increased for heat exhaustion in 2021. High-risk groups include young males, Marines, Army members, and trainees. Prevention education is crucial.
Area of Science:
- Military Medicine
- Environmental Health
- Occupational Health
Background:
- Heat illnesses, including heat stroke and heat exhaustion, pose significant risks to active-duty military personnel.
- Understanding trends and risk factors is essential for effective prevention and management strategies within the armed forces.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the incidence rates and demographic trends of heat stroke and heat exhaustion among U.S. Armed Forces service members.
- To identify specific subgroups at higher risk for these heat-related illnesses.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of incident cases of heat stroke and heat exhaustion from 2017-2021.
- Calculation of unadjusted annual rates per 1,000 person-years.
- Subgroup analysis based on demographics, service branch, training status, and occupation.
Main Results:
- In 2021, there were 488 heat stroke and 1,864 heat exhaustion cases. Heat exhaustion rates slightly increased from 2020 to 2021.
- Rates peaked in 2018 and declined through 2020, with heat stroke rates stabilizing in 2021.
- Highest incidence rates in 2021 were observed in males, those under 20, Marine Corps and Army members, recruit trainees, and those in combat roles.
Conclusions:
- Heat illnesses remain a concern in the military, with specific populations facing elevated risks.
- Continued surveillance and targeted preventive measures are necessary to mitigate heat illness incidence.
- Emphasizing education on risks, prevention, and early response is critical for commanders and medical personnel.
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