Fort Benning, Ga.  –   Medical readiness begins long before a unit receives deployment orders. It starts with the health of the individual soldier — and at its center is the heart.

At Martin Army Community Hospital, preventive medicine supports commanders by identifying cardiovascular risks early, reducing long-term medical profiles and preserving deployability across the force.

Heart disease remains the leading cause of death nationwide, with nearly half of American adults living with at least one cardiovascular risk factor, many of which develop without noticeable symptoms. In a military force built on endurance and resilience, those risks directly affect readiness and performance.

“Public Health and Preventive Medicine are readiness medicine,” said Lt. Col. Hanson. “When we identify cardiovascular risk factors early, we help prevent conditions that could affect a soldier’s ability to train, deploy or remain fully mission capable.”

Annual physical health assessments are a primary tool for maintaining medical readiness. During these evaluations, providers screen for elevated blood pressure, weight concerns and other indicators that can affect cardiovascular health. Many heart-related conditions develop gradually and without obvious symptoms, making routine screenings essential.

“These assessments allow us to intervene early,” Hanson said. “Early action helps prevent soldiers from transitioning from temporary profiles to permanent limitations.”

Lifestyle counseling is another key component of preventive medicine. Providers work with soldiers to address modifiable risk factors, including nutrition, physical activity and daily habits that affect heart health. These efforts support sustained performance and reduce the likelihood of long-term medical restrictions.

Tobacco cessation and weight management programs further support readiness by addressing factors known to reduce endurance and recovery. Tobacco use and unhealthy weight place additional strain on the heart and can adversely affect training outcomes and deployability.

“Reducing preventable risk factors helps commanders maintain healthy formations and minimize lost training time,” Hanson said.

Sleep health also plays a critical role in cardiovascular readiness. Chronic sleep deprivation increases the risk of high blood pressure and heart disease while degrading reaction time, focus and recovery. Through sleep health support services, providers identify and address sleep-related issues that may undermine both health and performance.

Martin Army Community Hospital’s preventive medicine efforts align with Army and Defense Health Agency priorities focused on force health protection and sustained readiness. While specialty cardiac care may be coordinated off the installation when required, the hospital serves as the hub for early detection, prevention and continuity of care.

“A strong heart supports a ready force,” Hanson said. “Preventive care protects readiness today and preserves the Army’s ability to fight tomorrow.”