Healthcare providers and service members should be aware of the potential effects of blast overpressure exposure and which occupations and heavy weapon systems are associated with increased risk. Research is still emerging on the full impact of BOP exposure on brain health and performance outcomes. As more information is learned about BOP, it's important to equip yourself with the knowledge to prevent, protect, and treat—to optimize force readiness.
Exposure does not equal injury!
Does your patient work with heavy weapons systems, explosives, or both, and complain of:
- Concentration problems
- Difficulty hearing
- Headaches
- Memory problems
- Slowed thinking or reaction times
- Decreased hand-eye coordination
They could be experiencing symptoms from BOP exposure. Download the provider support tool to learn how to best document, code, and manage care for your patients.
Download the BOP Provider Support Tool
A fact sheet for service members is available to download and share with patients.
Does your military occupation involve working with heavy weapon systems that leave you feeling unwell or not like yourself? You could be experiencing effects from BOP exposure.
Symptoms usually resolve with time. Learn more about how you can recognize, limit, and report BOP exposure.
Download the Service Member Fact Sheet
Potentially Concussive Events Reporting—it's Required!
TBICoE developed this 30-minute virtual training of detailed instruction on how to report service member involvement in PCEs, as well as why reporting is necessary. It also outlines the benefits and safety changes that have resulted from reporting. To support concussion reporting and management, the DOD published DODI 6490.11 in 2012 to establish policy, assign responsibilities, and outline procedures, including mandated reporting after a potentially concussive event. (Joint Knowledge Online Training, CAC authentication required.)
DHA-US1479 Potentially Concussive Event Reporting Training
We've designed an infographic to help illustrate some of the research work being done to better understand how low-level blast influences warfighter brain health. These efforts directly support Line of Effort 2 of the Warfighter Brain Health Initiative.
Download the Infographic
References that support the infographic:
- Section 734 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2018: Longitudinal Medical Study on Blast Pressure Exposure of Members of the Armed Forces
- Section 735 of the James M. Inhofe National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2023: Brain Health Initiative of the Department of Defense.
