Which of the following are considered major medical threats in military settings?

The correct answer identifies heat, cold, diarrheal diseases, and arthropod diseases as major medical threats in military settings due to several key factors that impact troops' health and operational effectiveness.

Heat-related illnesses can occur as a result of strenuous physical exertion in high temperatures, leading to conditions such as heat exhaustion or heat stroke, which can severely impair unit readiness. Cold weather poses risks as well, including hypothermia and frostbite, which can incapacitate personnel if proper precautions are not taken.

Diarrheal diseases present a significant threat, particularly in deployments where access to clean water and sanitation facilities may be compromised. These diseases can quickly spread in close quarters and lead to dehydration and diminished combat effectiveness.

Arthropod diseases, transmitted through vectors like mosquitoes and ticks, also pose major risks in many operational environments. Conditions such as malaria, dengue fever, and Lyme disease can have serious health impacts and may require extensive medical resources to manage outbreaks.

The consideration of these threats emphasizes the importance of preventive measures, including proper training, sanitation, and environmental adaptations to safeguard the health of military personnel in the field.