Update: Cold Injuries, Active and Reserve Components, U.S. Armed Forces, July 2017–June 2022

Area of Science:

• Military medicine
• Environmental health
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Cold injuries pose a significant risk to military personnel.
• Understanding incidence and risk factors is crucial for prevention strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report the incidence and characteristics of cold injuries in active and reserve component service members during the 2021-2022 cold season.
• To identify demographic and deployment-related risk factors for cold injuries.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of cold injury data from July 2021 to June 2022.
• Calculation of incidence rates per 100,000 person-years.
• Analysis of injury types and demographic data.

Main Results:

• A total of 482 cold injuries were reported (435 active, 47 reserve).
• The incidence rate for active components was 33.1 per 100,000 person-years.
• Frostbite was the most frequent injury, particularly among overseas deployed personnel (9 of 13 cases).
• Higher rates were observed in younger (<20 years), enlisted, male, and non-Hispanic Black service members.

Conclusions:

• Cold injury incidence remained consistent, with frostbite being the primary concern.
• Targeted prevention efforts are needed for high-risk demographic groups and deployed personnel.