What is the main cause of preventable deaths on the battlefield?

The main cause of preventable deaths on the battlefield is extremity hemorrhage. This type of injury is particularly lethal because significant blood loss can occur quickly, and without timely intervention, it can lead to shock and ultimately death. Extremity hemorrhage is often associated with extremity injuries resulting from blasts, gunshot wounds, or shrapnel. Effective management, such as the application of tourniquets or hemostatic dressings, can significantly improve survival rates by controlling the bleeding.

While complications from head trauma, infections, and pneumothorax are serious concerns on the battlefield, they are not the leading causes of preventable deaths. The rapid nature of extremity hemorrhage and the urgent need for immediate action underscore its critical status as the main preventable death cause in combat scenarios. Understanding this priority helps guide training and medical responses in Tactical Combat Casualty Care (TCCC).