Obesity and Army Readiness
Abstract
In the context of the dramatic increase in overweight and obesity prevalence in the United States as well as the global population, the United States Army has likewise noted an increase in the prevalence of obesity among active duty ranks. Using a centrally stored data repository, the Medical Readiness Assessment Tool (MRAT), the researcher obtained health and physical profile data on 15 active duty brigades with a result of 52,435 soldiers, and analyzed the relationship between the variables of rank, body mass index, and medical (limiting) permanent profile data. The assessed population demonstrated a statistically significant relationship between obesity and permanent profiles, both those indicating limitations and significant physical limitations. The assessed population also demonstrated a statistically significant increase in both obesity and permanent profiles with increasing rank. This thesis recommends that the Army adjust the standards and regulations with respect to body weight, body composition, and medical profiling.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 14, 2019
- Accession Number
- AD1110362
Entities
People
- Evan T. Trivette
Organizations
- United States Army Command and General Staff College