Journal of Military and Veteran’s Health - JMVH

E71: "Contact Poisons: A Brief Touch" by Andrew Robertson

"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 documented risks. Ultimately, the article serves as a warning for medical professionals to remain vigilant regarding potential skin exposures during patient assessments. You can read the original article here: https://jmvh.org/article/contact-poisons-a-brief-touch/ #podcast #militarymedicine #AMMA #JMVH #veteranshealth #militaryhealth

E70: "Combat, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder and Health of Australian Vietnam Veteran Conscripts and Volunteers in the Three Decades After Return" by B O’Toole

"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 show a higher prevalence of chronic physical conditions, such as heart disease and osteoarthritis, likely due to prolonged physical strain. Ultimately, the findings suggest that the specific advantages or disadvantages of one's enlistment status do not significantly alter overall health or socioeconomic outcomes in later life. You can read the original article here: https://jmvh.org/article/combat-posttraumatic-stress-disorder-and-health-of-australian-vietnam-veteran-conscripts-and-volunteers-in-the-three-decades-after-return/ #podcast #militarymedicine #AMMA #JMVH #veteranshealth #militaryhealth

E69: "Unraveling the Interplay Between Self-efficacy and Decision-making in Military Contexts: A Systematic Review" by Chrysanthi Lioupi and Vassiliki Ignatiou Karamanoli

"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 shape how efficacy influences a leader's choices. Ultimately, the findings suggest that military organizations can enhance operational readiness by integrating self-efficacy development into their training and leadership strategies. Despite these positive trends, the authors call for more standardized research to fully understand how these psychological factors interact in complex, real-world scenarios. You can read the original article here: https://jmvh.org/article/unraveling-the-interplay-between-self-efficacy-and-decision-making-in-military-contexts-a-systematic-review/ #podcast #militarymedicine #AMMA #JMVH #veteranshealth #militaryhealth

E68: "Combat Helmets and Blast Traumatic Brain Injury" by Duncan Wallace

"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 consistent use among personnel. Ultimately, the source emphasizes that future helmet development must find a functional balance between advanced trauma prevention and the practical needs of the soldier in the field. You can read the original article here: https://jmvh.org/article/combat-helmets-and-blast-traumatic-brain-injury/ #podcast #militarymedicine #AMMA #JMVH #veteranshealth #militaryhealth

E67: "The Legacy of the Anaesthesia ‘Events’ at Pearl Harbor, 7th December 1941." by John A Crowhurst

"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 medical field, highlighting the dangers of administering powerful drugs to patients in shock. Ultimately, the failures at Pearl Harbor accelerated the professionalization of anesthesiology, transforming it from a task for technicians into a specialized medical discipline requiring rigorous training. You can read the original article here: https://jmvh.org/article/the-legacy-of-the-anaesthesia-events-at-pearl-harbor-7th-december-1941/ #podcast #militarymedicine #AMMA #JMVH #veteranshealth #militaryhealth