Hypertension, fractures, pregnancy-related conditions, and obesity are among the top 'disabilities' in the army, according to a government report. The report, presented to Parliament, shows that these conditions have led to officers being placed in a low medical category (LMC), indicating reduced temporary or permanent fitness for active duty.
The disabilities in descending order include 'others' (communicable disease, connective tissue and autoimmune disorders, menstrual disorder, gall stones and hernia), diabetes, strains, spine disease, cardiovascular disease, and thyroid disease, the ministry told the Public Accounts Committee (PAC).
A medical downgrade following a disability entitles a soldier to better retirement benefits, with a disability pension being 20% to 50% more than a normal one, plus income tax exemption.
The 10 leading health conditions accounted for 71% of the overall disabilities affecting the army's officer cadre, the report said.
