What is the predominant cause of preventable death in combat fatalities?

The predominant cause of preventable death in combat fatalities is hemorrhage. During combat situations, immediate and severe blood loss is often a critical factor that can lead to mortality. Quick and effective control of bleeding can significantly improve survival rates. This is why Combat Medics and Corpsmen are taught to prioritize hemorrhage control through techniques such as tourniquet application and direct pressure, as these interventions can be lifesaving.

Research and battlefield data indicate that a large percentage of deaths occurring in the pre-hospital environment result from uncontrolled bleeding, placing significant emphasis on the necessity for timely and appropriate bleeding management. Understanding the mechanisms of hemorrhage and employing tactical approaches to stop bleeding is vital for any combat medic's efficacy, as the window of opportunity for intervening in such cases is often very narrow.