Uterine fibroids, active component females, U.S. Armed Forces, 2001-2010.

Uterine fibroids are benign tumors of the uterus that can cause significant morbidity in symptomatic women. From 2001 to 2010 there were 11,931 incident cases (incidence rate: 57.6 per 10,000 person-years) of uterine fibroids among active component females. The incidence rates were highest among black, non-Hispanic females and increased with advancing age. The observed decline in the number and percentage of inpatient hysterectomies for fibroids may reflect changes in overall treatment patterns during the period. Uterine fibroids commonly affect the health and military operational effectiveness of women on active duty; research to identify causes and preventive interventions is warranted.