A military career often involves rigorous training and high-stress environments that can have lasting effects on a service member’s health. While the honor and dedication involved are profound, the physical and psychological impacts can be substantial.
Understanding these long-term health implications is crucial for veterans, active-duty personnel, and their families to ensure proper care and support.
In this article, we will explore the various health challenges associated with military service.
Chronic Injuries and Musculoskeletal Disorders
The U.S. Army notes that the military medical data consistently shows that most injuries among service members are musculoskeletal. These injuries often result from cumulative microtrauma or overuse. Such injuries accumulate over time, impacting overall health and performance.
Military careers frequently involve intense physical activity, including carrying heavy equipment and enduring extreme conditions. Over time, this can lead to chronic injuries and musculoskeletal disorders. Common issues include back pain, joint problems, and repetitive strain injuries.
These conditions often persist long after active duty ends, affecting daily life and overall well-being. Veterans may experience decreased mobility and chronic pain, which can impact their quality of life. Early intervention and ongoing physical therapy are vital to managing these long-term effects, ensuring that service members receive the support needed for recovery.
What are musculoskeletal injuries in the military?
Musculoskeletal injuries in the military involve damage to muscles, bones, and joints. They often result from repetitive stress or heavy physical activity. Common examples include back pain, joint strains, and tendonitis, which can impair movement and overall functionality.
Exposure to Harmful Substances
NIH states that service members are often exposed to harmful substances, including toxic chemicals and pollutants. Exposure to substances like asbestos, heavy metals, and pesticides is a significant concern. For example, veterans of the Gulf War have reported health issues related to exposure to burn pits and other environmental hazards. Prolonged exposure to these poisons can cause malignancies, breathing issues, and other dangerous medical concerns.
Another significant source of concern is exposure to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), a family of compounds used in military applications such as firefighting. These compounds are recognized for their tenacity in both the human body and the environment, potentially resulting in cancer, thyroid issues, and liver damage.
A significant source of PFAS exposure is aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF), which is frequently used to combat fires on military installations. Prolonged exposure to AFFF has been connected to testicular and kidney cancer, among other health issues. The long-term effects of PFAS and AFFF exposure can be severe, making it essential for veterans and active-duty personnel to monitor their health regularly.
According to TruLaw, there have been lawsuits filed against the manufacturers of firefighting foam by service members and veterans. They are seeking compensation for health conditions linked to exposure to harmful substances. These lawsuits highlight the urgent need for improved safety protocols and stricter regulations.
A March 2024 update from the Lawsuit Information Center mentions that 170+ new cases were added to the AFFF litigation. There are now over 7,000 pending cases in the AFFF lawsuit. Many of these cases involve water contamination and were resolved in last summer’s settlement deal.
Can AFFF cause kidney disease?
Yes, AFFF (aqueous film-forming foam) has been linked to kidney disease. Exposure to AFFF, which contains PFAS chemicals, can increase the risk of developing kidney cancer. Studies suggest that prolonged contact with these substances can adversely affect kidney health.
Mental Health Challenges
Serving in the military has psychological strains that might cause serious problems with mental health. Veterans frequently experience depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). These diseases may be worsened by battle stress, extended deployments, and exposure to traumatic events.
As per MilitaryTimes, a recent report shows that younger veterans often find themselves in jobs that put their physical and mental health at risk. These roles can aggravate injuries they sustained during military service. Compared to their civilian peers, these veterans face a higher likelihood of worsening existing conditions.
Comprehensive assistance, such as peer support groups, counseling, and treatment, is necessary while addressing mental health concerns. An early diagnosis can improve results and facilitate a more seamless transition for veterans into civilian life. Effective mental health treatment emphasizes the need for ongoing services and support for individuals afflicted, which is essential to overall well-being.
How does the military affect mental health?
Military service can impact mental health through high-stress environments and exposure to traumatic events. Service members may experience conditions like PTSD, anxiety, and depression. The intense demands and prolonged deployments contribute to these mental health challenges, affecting well-being both during and after service.
Military service, though honorable, comes with serious health risks. The physical demands often result in chronic musculoskeletal problems, while exposure to harmful substances like PFAS poses long-term health threats.
The psychological strain from combat and deployment can lead to lasting mental health issues. It’s vital to recognize these challenges and provide comprehensive support for veterans. A holistic approach addressing physical, mental, and environmental health is essential for their well-being.
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