Journal of Military and Veteran’s Health - JMVH

"An Overview to Military Medical Ethics" by Martin Bricknell examines the complex field of military medical ethics (MME), which exists at the vital intersection of professional healthcare standards and military necessity. It highlights the unique dual loyalty faced by practitioners who must balance their clinical obligations to patients with their duties as uniformed officers. The source outlines how ethical challenges manifest differently in combat zones, where international humanitarian law prevails, versus garrison settings, where issues like informed consent and research oversight are paramount. Key areas of concern include the neutrality of medical personnel, the fair distribution of scarce resources...

"Gastrointestinal Mortality in Military / Prison Camps of the 19th-20th Centuries" by G Dennis Shanks is an historical article that delves into the historical records that gastrointestinal diseases and malnutrition were the primary drivers of extreme mortality in military and penal camps. Whether in the American Civil War's Andersonville or World War II’s Thai-Burma railway, overcrowding and poor sanitation created lethal environments where dysentery flourished. Even as medical science advanced, logistical failures regarding clean water and waste disposal continued to claim lives across diverse climates and conflicts. The data suggests that high death rates often peaked during the in...

"Considerations Regarding Appendicitis at Sea" by David Becerra explores the complex medical and ethical dilemmas faced by military healthcare providers when managing acute appendicitis at sea. While modern naval vessels possess surgical capabilities, the lack of advanced diagnostic imaging like CT scans often forces a choice between immediate onboard operation or a risky medical evacuation to land-based facilities. Through comparative case studies, the authors evaluate how logistical constraints, such as transport costs and operational delays, must be weighed against patient safety and clinical standards. The research highlights that while antibiotic therapy is a possible alternative, it carries a high...

"Gulf War Illness in the 1991 Gulf War and Gulf Era Veteran Population: An Application of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and Kansas Case Definitions to Historical Data" by E Dursa, S Barth, B Porter, A Schneiderman examines the prevalence of Gulf War Illness (GWI) by applying established diagnostic criteria to a massive, representative group of over 20,000 veterans. By using data collected shortly after the 1991 conflict, the study identifies cases before age-related health issues could confuse the results. The findings reveal that roughly 41% to 51% of deployed veterans met the requirements for the illness, a significantly higher rate than...

"Adjunct Activities for Mental Health Improvements for Veterans" by Tavis Watt examines the integration of adjunct activities as supplemental treatments to address the complex mental health challenges faced by military veterans. Research suggests that traditional medical approaches may not fully satisfy the unique needs of personnel struggling with a loss of purpose or conditions like PTSD, depression, and anxiety. To bridge this gap, the authors evaluate three primary categories of intervention: physical exercise, animal-assisted therapy, and creative arts programs. These activities are supported by various behavioral, cognitive, and neurophysiological theories, such as the release of endorphins and the fostering...

"CRM training for ADF aeromedical staff" by Jeffrey Stephenson explores the history and implementation of Crew Resource Management (CRM), a strategy originally designed to reduce aviation accidents caused by human error. While traditionally used by flight crews to improve teamwork and communication, the author argues for its critical necessity within aeromedical evacuation teams due to high fatality rates in that sector. The source outlines the six generations of CRM development, tracing its shift from correcting individual pilot behavior to establishing comprehensive organizational safety cultures. To mitigate medical errors, the article proposes a specific twelve-module training framework tailored for Australian...

"Artificial intelligence and expert systems – their application to military medicine" by A G Robertson explores the evolution and integration of artificial intelligence and expert systems within the field of medicine, with a specific focus on military healthcare applications. It details the historical progression from early diagnostic tools like MYCIN to contemporary neural networks used for analyzing complex radiological imagery. The author examines how these technologies enhance clinical decision-making, modernize digital medical records, and streamline professional training through interactive simulations. While acknowledging significant benefits such as increased consistency and better quality assurance, the text also addresses hurdles like difficult data en...

"Too Sick For Caring? An Analysis of The Health Impact of The Great War (1914-1918) on The First Cohort of New Zealand Nurses Who Served" by Wendy Maddocks examines the physical and mental health outcomes of the first fifty New Zealand nurses who served during the First World War. While the medical history of soldiers is well-documented, the author highlights a significant gap in research regarding the long-term well-being of the women who provided their care. Despite being high-caliber professionals in peak physical condition upon enlistment, over half of this cohort suffered from debilitating illnesses, such as tuberculosis, typhoid...

"A Case Series Evaluating the Long-Term Efficacy of Botulinum Toxin in the Treatment of Painful Neuropathy" by Xinli Du & Deep Patel examines the long-term effectiveness of botulinum toxin as a treatment for veterans suffering from chronic, treatment-resistant neuropathic pain. Researchers followed patients for up to twelve years to determine if repeated intradermal injections could provide lasting relief where traditional medications had failed. The findings reveal that participants experienced a significant and sustained reduction in pain severity, leading to improved sleep and overall quality of life. Administered every three months, the injections were well-tolerated with minimal side effects, maintaining their...

"Efficacy of Yoga for Managing Sleep Problems among Military Veterans: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis" by Rocío Carballo Afonso , Daniel González-Devesa , Lidia Iglesias Vieites & Carlos Ayán Pérez evaluates the effectiveness of yoga as a treatment for sleep disturbances in military veterans. While the practice showed promising improvements in subjective sleep quality and helped manage insomnia symptoms, researchers noted that it did not significantly impact objective sleep metrics like actigraphy data. The findings suggest that while yoga is a safe and well-received complementary therapy, its benefits may be inferior to established methods like cognitive behavioral therapy or s...

"Medial tibial stress syndrome in military recruits" by James Ross examines the high prevalence of medial tibial stress syndrome, commonly known as shin splints, among military recruits undergoing basic training. The author clarifies the diagnostic confusion surrounding the condition, noting that it is a mechanical inflammation caused by excessive physical strain without sufficient prior conditioning. While usually self-limiting and treatable with rest and anti-inflammatory measures, the condition causes significant physical discomfort and serves as a warning for more serious overuse injuries. Risk factors are categorized into intrinsic physical traits, such as fitness levels and body mass, and extrinsic training...

"Military Personnel and Psychological Support: An Analysis Based on Social Representation Theory" by V. Karamanoli & K. Papachristopoulos examines how Greek military trainees perceive the process of seeking psychological support across various ranks using Social Representation Theory. The research highlights a significant internal conflict where participants acknowledge the efficacy of mental health services while simultaneously viewing the need for help as a lack of military virtue. These social perceptions fluctuate based on hierarchical roles, with trainees often devaluing services for themselves to protect their professional identity and sense of strength. Interestingly, the data suggests that social stigma is not a...

"Contact Poisons: A Brief Touch" by Andrew Robertson examines the reality of contact poisons, which are hazardous substances capable of entering the body through the skin to cause illness or death. While often dismissed as a trope of crime fiction, these toxins represent a genuine threat in military, industrial, and agricultural settings. The author highlights how specific factors like skin hydration, surface area, and chemical solvents—notably dimethyl sulfoxide—can significantly increase the danger of transdermal absorption. Though highly complex toxins like ricin are difficult to absorb this way, common substances such as pesticides, nerve agents, and nicotine pose docu...

"Combat, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder and Health of Australian Vietnam Veteran Conscripts and Volunteers in the Three Decades After Return" by B O’Toole, K Pierse, B Friedrich, S Outram, M Dadds, & S Catts examines the long-term physical and psychological health of Australian Vietnam War veterans, specifically comparing conscripts and voluntary enlistees. While regular soldiers typically faced more intensive combat exposure and longer deployments, national servicemen often entered the military with higher education levels but less specialized training. The study reveals that both groups experience similar rates of PTSD and psychiatric disorders decades after their service ended. However, regular soldiers sh...

"Unraveling the Interplay Between Self-efficacy and Decision-making in Military Contexts: A Systematic Review" by Chrysanthi Lioupi and Vassiliki Ignatiou Karamanoli investigates the connection between self-efficacy and decision-making effectiveness within military and high-pressure operational environments. By analyzing six distinct studies, the research demonstrates that personnel with higher confidence in their capabilities consistently achieve better outcomes, faster response times, and reduced human error. The text highlights how this psychological trait helps individuals manage stress and uncertainty, effectively acting as a buffer that allows for clearer judgment during crises. Beyond personal belief, the sources emphasize that experience, resilience, and cultural context further...

"Combat Helmets and Blast Traumatic Brain Injury" by Duncan Wallace explores the evolution and efficacy of military helmets in protecting soldiers from traumatic brain injuries (TBI) caused by modern explosive devices. While historical designs prioritized defense against shrapnel and blunt force, current research examines how to mitigate the complex pressure waves produced by blasts in Iraq and Afghanistan. The author evaluates emerging technologies, such as ballistic materials capable of stopping rifle rounds and integrated helmet sensors that record concussive data for medical analysis. However, the text notes that increasing protection often adds weight and physical discomfort, which can discourage...

"The Legacy of the Anaesthesia ‘Events’ at Pearl Harbor, 7th December 1941." by John A Crowhurst examines the historical significance of medical complications involving the anesthetic drug thiopentone during the 1941 attack on Pearl Harbor. For decades, a narrative persisted that improper use of this sedative caused massive casualties, prompting the author to investigate how much truth lies behind these claims. The source suggests that while precise death tolls remain unknown due to poor record-keeping and military censorship, the tragedies were likely fueled by untrained personnel and a lack of pharmacological knowledge. This crisis served as a pivotal turning point for the...

"Dengue Epidemics During the Second World War in Queensland" by Dennis G Shanks is a fascinating historical article; during World War II, the massive mobilization of military forces and civilians led to significant dengue fever epidemics across Queensland and the Northern Territory. These outbreaks were fueled by the heavy mixing of populations in areas where mosquito vectors were already established, often overwhelming existing quarantine and prevention efforts. Thousands of Australian and American soldiers were affected, leading to substantial operational challenges due to widespread illness and lingering post-viral fatigue. Military medical officers struggled to distinguish the virus from malaria, yet...

"Over a century of service: the .303 projectile and its wounding capabilities – a historical profile" by David Andrew examines the evolution of the .303 military projectile and the controversies surrounding its wounding capabilities over more than a century of use. The text details the progression from early black powder rounds to sophisticated dual-core spire point bullets designed to tumble upon impact. Significant focus is placed on the legal and ethical debates sparked by expanding "dum-dum" ammunition, which eventually led to bans under the Hague Convention. The source also highlights how British and Australian forces adapted the cartridge’s design to balance stop...

"The Effects of Current Cold Chain Management Equipment in Controlling the Temperature of Thermolabile Medications and Temperature Sensitive Diagnostics, Dressings and Fluids in A Routine Australian Defence Force Operating/Exercise Environment" by E Daly, N Evans and S Holmes-Brown examines how effectively the Australian Defence Force maintains the cold chain for medications and medical supplies during field exercises. Research findings reveal that existing storage containers and logistical protocols frequently fail to keep temperature-sensitive items within the required thermal ranges, leading to significant cold-chain breaches. These failures compromise the safety and efficacy of pharmaceuticals, potentially putting military personnel at risk...

"Acceleration-Induced atelectasis; a case with deceptive clinical manifestations for COVID-19 pneumonia" by H Shahli & M Darvishi details a medical case study involving an F-14 pilot whose physical symptoms initially mimicked a COVID-19 infection. Despite presenting with a fever, cough, and low oxygen levels, diagnostic testing revealed that the patient was actually suffering from acceleration-induced atelectasis caused by high-gravity flight maneuvers. The text explains that this condition occurs when sustained gravitational forces and high oxygen concentrations cause lung segments to collapse. Fortunately, the aviator made a full recovery through respiratory rehabilitation and the use of mucolytic medication. The authors emphasize...

"BIOLOGICAL AGENTS Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever" by Sue Sharpe offers a comprehensive medical and epidemiological profile of Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, a disease caused by the intracellular bacterium Rickettsia rickettsii. It details how the pathogen is primarily transmitted through tick bites and describes the severe physiological impact of the infection, which targets endothelial cells and can lead to systemic organ damage. The source highlights the difficulty of early diagnosis due to non-specific symptoms like fever and muscle pain, emphasizing that prompt antibiotic treatment with tetracycline or doxycycline is critical for survival. Additionally, the article explores the infection's potential as...

"Toughening Up: Bullying in the British Army during the First World War" by S Walker explores the pervasive role of bullying and hazing within the British Army during World War I, framing these behaviors as tools for indoctrination and social control. The author examines how systemic humiliation was utilized by recruiters, officers, and the public to pressure men into service and enforce military discipline. Personal testimonies illustrate that while some soldiers viewed harsh treatment as a necessary part of "toughening up," others experienced profound psychological trauma or were driven to violent mutiny. The study further highlights how prejudice based...

"Psychosocial Risk Factors and their Impact on the Performance of Everyday Activities in Canadian Veterans" by AM Miguel-Cruz examines how psychosocial risk factors influence the ability of Canadian veterans to perform daily activities while managing chronic pain and mental health conditions. By analyzing clinical data through the Fear-Avoidance Model, the study identifies significant correlations between a veteran's perceived disability, catastrophic thinking, and feelings of injustice with their actual level of functional impairment. The authors utilize the Canadian Model of Occupational Performance and Engagement to advocate for a holistic, multidisciplinary rehabilitation approach that moves beyond treating isolated symptoms. Ultimately, the...

"When and How Military Students’ Self-Esteem May Become an Obstacle in Seeking Professional Mental Health Help When Needed?" by Vassiliki Karamanoli examines how self-esteem and social stigma impact the willingness of Greek military students to seek professional mental health services. Research indicates that while these students often acknowledge the effectiveness of psychological support, they frequently avoid it due to fears of appearing weak or damaging their careers. Interestingly, the findings suggest that high self-esteem among trainees can actually serve as a barrier, as it reinforces a social identity of strength that views seeking help as a violation of military vi...

"Logistics in The Falklands War" is a book review by Captain Arthur M Smith. This article explores the vital role of logistics during the 1982 Falklands War, using the British campaign as a primary case study for modern military planning. The author highlights how the United Kingdom overcame an 8,000-mile supply chain by utilizing civilian vessels and improvised medical facilities despite severe Argentine air attacks. Special attention is given to the medical challenges faced in the South Atlantic, including the rapid conversion of cruise ships into hospital platforms. Ultimately, the text argues that future amphibious operations must prioritize flexible, pragmatic...

"Submarine escape and rescue: a brief history" by Nick Stewart traces the historical evolution of submarine escape and rescue methods from the early 20th century to modern times. It distinguishes between escape, where crews exit a disabled vessel independently, and rescue, which involves external assistance from specialized vehicles or chambers. The text highlights how tragic disasters, such as those involving the HMS Truculent and the Kursk, served as catalysts for improving thermal protection and international cooperation. It further explores the transition from simple breathing apparatuses to advanced technologies like the McCann Rescue Chamber and modern Deep Submergence Rescue Vehicles...

"Psychological Coping Mechanisms in Military Physicians: A Qualitative Exploration of Stress Management Strategies" by Mahdi Ghorbank thani explores the unique psychological stressors and coping mechanisms found among military physicians who manage the dual responsibilities of medical practice and soldiering. Through interviews with eighteen medical officers, the study identifies adaptive strategies like proactive problem solving, social support networks, and self-care practices that bolster professional resilience. Conversely, the authors highlight maladaptive behaviors such as emotional suppression, substance use, and avoidance that can undermine a provider's wellbeing. The findings emphasize that while these doctors face exceptional pressures from operational deployments and the...

"Thermobaric Munitions and their Medical Effects" by David Andrew examines the mechanics, history, and pathological consequences of thermobaric munitions. Unlike traditional explosives, these weapons disperse a fuel cloud that ignites to create a sustained, high-temperature blast wave capable of flowing into fortified structures. The text highlights how the resulting extended overpressure causes severe internal trauma, specifically targeting air-tissue interfaces in the lungs, ears, and digestive tract. Beyond discussing global development by nations like Russia and the United States, the article details the specialized medical assessments and interventions required to treat primary blast injuries. It concludes that the unique physical...

"Measles Mortality in the Armies of the Early 20th Century" by G Dennis Shanks examines the lethal history of measles within various military forces during the early 20th century, specifically highlighting how the virus caused high mortality rates before the era of modern vaccines. The author details how secondary bacterial pneumonia was the primary cause of death for soldiers, with significant outbreaks occurring in the United States, United Kingdom, and Australian armies during World War I. While measles mortality significantly declined as the population gained natural immunity and eventually access to immunization, the text warns that the disease remains...

"Treating combat-related Posttraumatic Stress Disorder using Therapeutic Fly-Fishing with EMDR (TF-EMDR)" by A Parmenter introduces Therapeutic Fly-Fishing with EMDR (TF-EMDR), a novel treatment framework designed specifically for military veterans and active-duty personnel suffering from combat-related PTSD. The author argues that while nature-based interventions show promise, they often lack the clinical oversight and evidence-based structure necessary for safe trauma recovery. By integrating the eight-phase EMDR protocol with the simplified Japanese fishing method known as Tenkara, the model uses the rhythmic motion of casting as a form of bilateral stimulation. This approach aims to decrease the stigma associated with traditional office-based...

"Load Carriage and the Female Soldier" by Venerina Johnson examines how heavy load carriage impacts the physiological, biomechanical, and long-term health of female soldiers. The authors highlight that carrying significant weight alters gait and spinal alignment, which increases the risk of overuse injuries and metabolic strain. They also identify gender-specific challenges, such as the female athlete triad, iron deficiency, and pelvic floor dysfunction, which are often exacerbated by military environments. A significant portion of the text discusses how ill-fitting equipment designed for male anatomy further compromises performance and safety. To mitigate these risks, the source advocates for structured physical...

"History of Tuberculosis. Part 2 – the Sanatoria and the Discoveries of the Tubercle Bacillus" by John Frith details the scientific evolution of tuberculosis management, tracing its journey from a lethal epidemic to a treatable condition. It highlights the foundational discovery of the tubercle bacillus by Robert Koch in 1882, which shifted the medical understanding of the disease from a hereditary ailment to an infectious one. The text examines early treatment methods, including the rise of isolated sanatoria and invasive surgical techniques like lung collapse therapy. It also explores diagnostic milestones, such as the implementation of X-rays and the development of the BC...

50 episodes of the JMVH podcast series!! What a milestone.  Thank you for your support, we are glad you enjoy our articles as much as we do!

"Casualties in Australian Military and Indigenous Para-Military Units in Papua New Guinea during the Second World War" by G Dennis Shanks examines the human cost of military operations in Papua New Guinea during World War II, focusing on the diverse mortality rates across different units. The author highlights how tropical diseases like malaria and dysentery often proved more lethal than direct combat, especially for indigenous labor forces and frontline infantry. By c...

"A SHORT LIFE RICH IN IMAGES: New Records of the Life of John Kirkpatrick (1892-1915) “Simpson” of the Australian Army Medical Corps" by John Pearn explores the life and enduring legacy of John Kirkpatrick, famously known as "Simpson," an iconic stretcher-bearer in the Australian Army Medical Corps. The authors present newly discovered archival evidence and photographs concerning his English childhood in South Shields, linking his early experiences with donkeys and maritime life-saving to his later heroics. Despite only serving for twenty-four days at Gallipoli, Kirkpatrick became a legendary figure of self-sacrifice, celebrated through various statues, coins, and stamps across mult...

"Air travel and pregnancy – with reference to obstetric and perinatal aeromedical retrieval" by Jeffrey Stephensen evaluates the safety and medical implications of air travel for pregnant women and their newborns. Research indicates that flying is generally secure for healthy pregnancies up to 36 weeks, as common concerns like radiation and oxygen levels typically remain within safe limits. The text also analyzes aeromedical retrieval, noting that transporting a fetus "in-utero" is widely considered superior to moving a fragile neonate in an incubator. However, the author highlights that many emergency transfers occur due to hospital capacity issues rather than strictly clinical needs. Ul...

"Military Effectiveness of Five Dietary Supplements Purported to Aid Cognitive and Physical Performance" by Bradley Baker evaluates the military effectiveness and safety of five common dietary supplements: Rhodiola rosea, long-chain omega-3 fatty acids, beetroot juice, arginine, and beta-alanine. While these substances are often marketed as performance enhancers, researchers found that fish oils are the only supplement consistently recommended for health, though they likely do not boost immediate cognitive or physical results. The report warns that Rhodiola rosea and arginine lack reliable evidence for efficacy in highly fit personnel. Furthermore, beetroot juice and beta-alanine present potential safety risks or side...

"Pacific Island Societies Destabilised by Infectious Diseases" by G Dennis Shanks explores how infectious diseases like measles and influenza caused mass depopulation in Pacific Island societies starting in the 18th century. A critical focus is placed on the disproportionate mortality of hereditary leaders, who faced higher risks due to diplomatic travel and crowded social customs. The sudden loss of these high-ranking chiefs caused severe political destabilization and the irreversible disappearance of oral traditions. In places like Fiji and Samoa, these leadership vacuums led to long-term societal changes, including the introduction of foreign labor and enduring ethnic tensions. Ultimately, the...

"Glimpses of future battlefield medicine – the proliferation of robotic surgeons and unmanned vehicles and technologies" by Gary Martinic
explores the growing integration of robotic surgical systems and unmanned ground vehicles within the field of military medicine. By utilizing advanced technologies like the BEAR extraction robot and the da Vinci surgical platform, the military aims to provide life-saving interventions in high-risk zones without exposing human medics to direct fire. These innovations include autonomous porters for logistics, remote-controlled stretchers for physiological monitoring, and portable operating rooms designed for rapid casualty care. Despite their promise, the text notes that these systems fa...

"War-Related Dysentery Epidemics in the Australian Army" by G Dennis Shanks examines the persistent threat of dysentery throughout the history of the Australian Army, from the early 20th century to modern humanitarian crises. The author details how unhygienic conditions and poor sanitation fueled devastating epidemics during major conflicts, including the Gallipoli and Palestine campaigns. It highlights the catastrophic impact on prisoners of war and civilian populations in Papua New Guinea, where the disease caused thousands of deaths. While the development of antibiotics like sulphaguanidine eventually reduced mortality rates, the text emphasizes that the illness remains a significant risk during...