The Impact of Sweat Calcium Loss on Bone Health in Soldiers: A Pilot Study
Abstract
Purpose: The study had three aims: 1) Determine the feasibility of quantifying sweat calcium loss during desert physical training, 2) Examine the significance of calcium loss on bone health, and 3) Describe the impact of self-reported exercise and dietary habits on bone health. Design: This was a prospective, descriptive, longitudinal study.Methods: Sweat collection via patch method occurred during scheduled desert training. Biomarkers of bone turnover, anthropometric measures, and reports of activity and diet via questionnaires, were obtained pre-deployment and within 60 days of return. Sample: 156 soldiers participated; 52 completed the sweat collection, and 104 deployed for an average of 12 months. Soldiers represented two types of units, combat support and combat arms. Analysis: Tests of change and bivariate correlations were performed to analyze descriptive data; t-tests for independent and paired samples were used where appropriate. Findings: A decrease in body weight, BMI, body fat, and waist circumference occurred in both types of units. Physical activity levels declined in each group; two sports activities of moderate intensity and frequency during deployment were significantly correlated with increased heel BMD (r = .47, p = .01) in combat arms Soldiers. Implications for Military Nursing: Brigade nurses and medics are in an influential position to educate soldiers about wellness to include diet, physical activity, and bone health. The deployed environment plays a significant role in the accessibility to resources for a healthy lifestyle and must be evaluated by public health nurses prior to establishing unit wellness goals.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Feb 06, 2013
- Accession Number
- ADA617394
Entities
People
- Mary S. McCarthy
Organizations
- Geneva Foundation