Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome in Active Duty Service Members: Rare and Lethal

Acute respiratory distress syndrome poses significant risks to active duty military personnel, with notable short-term mortality and long-term morbidity, including high rates of medical separation and failure to return to duty. These complications could impact the military overall by decreasing the workforce, impairing military readiness, and introducing financial burdens. Further studies are needed to fully assess functional limitations following ARDS and to optimize management strategies that enhance recovery outcomes for military service members affected by the condition.