Trends in Heart and Stroke Disease Among Female Service Members
Author Information
Author(s): Donici Valentina, Stahlman Shauna L., Fan Michael T., Langton Richard S.
Primary Institution: Uniformed University of the Health Sciences
Hypothesis
What are the trends in ischemic heart disease and cerebrovascular disease among U.S. active component female service members from 2014 to 2023?
Conclusion
The study found that non-Hispanic Black women and those aged 30 years and older had higher rates of ischemic heart disease and cerebrovascular disease among active component service women.
Supporting Evidence
- Non-Hispanic Black active component U.S. service women had higher rates for both ischemic heart disease and cerebrovascular disease.
- A prior diagnosis of depressive or anxiety disorder resulted in a 90% increased rate of ischemic heart disease.
- Air Force members had a 55% increased rate of ischemic heart disease.
Takeaway
This study looked at heart and stroke diseases in women in the military and found that certain groups, like older women and Black women, are at higher risk.
Methodology
The study used a retrospective cohort design analyzing data from the Defense Medical Surveillance System for active component female service members from 2014 to 2023.
Potential Biases
Potential under-reporting of risk factors due to reliance on medical records.
Limitations
The study relied on ICD code diagnoses, which may under-represent conditions like obesity and smoking, and lacked data on female-specific risk factors.
Participant Demographics
65.3% of participants were under 30 years old, 24.8% were non-Hispanic Black, and 42.2% were non-Hispanic White.
Statistical Information
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website