DISEASES AND DEFECTS IN AIRCREW TRAINEES: VII. Ear, Nose, Throat and Oral Cavity

Abstract

ear, nose, throat and oral cavity in 344,134 applicants for pilot, navigator and bombardier training, found on examination at Army Air Force classification centers and Army Air Force basic training centers.Previous physical examinations for aircrew training had been made on these men at other Army medical facilities (armed force induction center, Army Air Force bases and similar centers). Consequently, the diseases and defects found at this examination developed subsequent to the previous examinations, were overlooked or had not been considered severe enough for disqualification at the original examination.Owing to the selectivity of this group, the incidence of diseases and defects found do not represent those of similar diseases and defects in a cross section of the general male population between the ages of 18 and 26 (age limits for aircrew training).Because of the large number of examinations, however, it does give a base line, so to speak, of the frequency of defects and diseases of the ear, nose, throat and oral cavity to expect after a preliminary physical examination for aircrew training has been made. MEDICAL EXAMINERS AND EXAMINEESThe medical examiners were well qualified physicians, representing a cross section of the medical profession from the country as a whole. A number were selected because of their special qualifications and interest in this type of duty.The examinees were from all sections of the country and all types of communities. They had entered the aircrew training program from three main sources : from active duty with the various branches of the service; from civilian life, as aircrew enlisted reservists, and from the recruit reception centers, where, as new selectees, they volunteered for aircrew training. From the Office of the Surgeon Headquarters Army Air Force Training Command. Downloaded From: http://archotol.jamanetwork.com/ by a Oakland University User on 06/12/2015