Self Reported Behavioral Health Habits and Other Health Issues Influencing Capabilities and Mission Readiness of Combat Search and Rescue Personnel

Abstract : U.S. Air Force (USAF) combat search and rescue (CSAR) fixed- and rotary-wing aircrew special duty rescue personnel are highly trained airmen operating across the globe in a wide range of Department of Defense and Joint Military Coalition combat rescue and recovery missions. The health and wellness of such aircrew and special duty operators are critical to sustaining warfigther performance and readiness capabilities. As a result, the USAF School of Aerospace Medicine was requested by USAF line operator and medical leadership to conduct a field survey to assess for general areas of health-related behaviors (i.e., sleep and exercise; alcohol, tobacco, and caffeine use; common reasons for seeking medical care and mental health support services; and reasons for increased prescription and over-the-counter medication usage) relevant to understanding the needs and issues specific to this community.