WARRIOR’S WORRY

At one time, all individuals who had any history of asthma were automatically disqualified from joining the military, and neither their age nor evidence that they had outgrown the condition could reverse that decision. Rarely were waivers considered. Now, however, the Department of Defense has determined that disqualification can take place only if military candidates’ asthma occurred after their 13th birthday. Of course, screening of their medical records is still part of the process. Nonetheless, if medical records are accompanied by signed statements indicating that the individuals no longer have any type of asthma, nor have they received treatment for it after the age of 13, it is eliminated as a reason for disqualification.

P.S.  If an applicant to the military had an issue with asthma after age 13, a waiver may be considered, subject to testing.

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