Only 23% of Americans aged 17-24 are qualified for service, obesity being key.

According to a recent Pentagon study, 77% of young Americans aged 17-24 are ineligible for military service without a waiver. The primary disqualifying factors include obesity, drug and alcohol abuse, and various medical or physical health issues. Specifically, obesity is the most common disqualifying factor, affecting about 11% of this age group.

This situation is indeed concerning, as these years are typically considered the physical peak for many individuals. The high rate of disqualification highlights broader issues related to health and fitness among American youth.

“Only 23% of Americans age 17-24 are qualified to serve”

If this doesn’t terrify you, I don’t know what will. pic.twitter.com/PmYRV7mY69

— Amy Nixon (@texasrunnerDFW) September 15, 2024

Sources:
https://www.military.com/daily-news/2022/09/28/new-pentagon-study-shows-77-of-young-americans-are-ineligible-military-service.html

https://taskandpurpose.com/news/military-recruitment-pentagon-study-youth/

https://taskandpurpose.com/military-life/vast-majority-americans-20s-unfit-military-service/