Health Trends in Eighteen Year Old Military Dependents from 2008-2018

Background: Interest in and eligibility for military service are declining nationally, increasing dependence on recruiting from military connected families. One major impediment to joining the military, is medical ineligibility. Studies show national increases in adolescent obesity and mental health diagnoses, however there is little research on the comprehensive health of adolescents and trends in adolescent health over time. Limited research on military dependent children suggests similar trends, however comprehensive research documenting the health of military dependent adolescents specifically as it relates to their eligibility for military accession over time …