The impact of desert environments on the respiratory systems of Air Force training personnel

YAN Hong; HAN Liang; CUI Xuyu; NIU Yongliang; WU Lei; SHI Ruijiang; QU Shuoyao

doi:10.13276/j.issn.2097-1656.2026.01.009

Abstract：Objective To investigate the impact of desert environments on the respiratory systems of pilots and Air Force ground crew and explore countermeasures,providing a theoretical basis for safeguarding the respiratory health of military personnel.Methods A questionnaire-based survey was conducted among 200 personnel at a military base to statistically analyze the types,timing,duration,and alleviation measures of respiratory symptoms,as well as corresponding medical support needs.Results Mild symptoms such as chest tightness,rhinorrhea,and cough were reported by 8.2%of pilots during flight missions,which were alleviated through anti-G straining maneuvers or breathing adjustments.Additionally,6.1%of personnel developed a mild persistent cough after prolonged flight missions,which was relieved with physical therapy.No correlation was observed between preexisting medical conditions and symptoms occurring during flight missions.Among ground crew,83.3%reported one or more respiratory discomforts in the past year,such as dry throat,sore throat,nasal congestion,rhinorrhea,and cough,often coexisting with prior pharyngitis or rhinitis.Symptoms worsened during winter in 45.8%of ground crew,with prolonged duration,while 27.1%reported symptom aggravation unrelated to seasonal changes.Effective outdoor protective measures reduced medical visits.Medical support needs included requests for protective equipment(over 50%),health education,enhanced air quality monitoring,and improved medical facilities.Conclusion Desert environments exacerbate respiratory symptoms and negatively impact the health of military personnel during training.Comprehensive medical support should prioritize health education,optimized outdoor protection,and enhanced medical assistance at the grassroots level to ensure respiratory health.