BONES MINERALIZATION STATUS OF SOLDIERS DOING MILITARY SERVICE IN DIFFERENT TYPES OF POLISH ARMY UNITS

Background. For proper construction and functioning of human skeletal system a very important thing is adequate supply of calcium, which content in daily rations, in addition to genetics, degree of physical activity and level of sex steroids, is an essential factor influencing on bone mass. Aim of the work: the aim of the work was to assess mineral status of regular soldiers doing military service in different types of Polish military units.

Material and methods. An assessment of bones calcification and protein-energy nutritional status of 1913 men, soldiers doing military service in different types of Polish military units, was made. Body height and body mass were determined by standard methods using a scales and a height-meter. Bone mineral density was measured by DEXA densitometry on forearm bone of non-prevailing arm, using the EXA 3000 apparatus.

Results. Results of densitometry showed that 1594 soldiers, that is 83.3% of subjects had standard bone calcification. Bone mineralization characteristic of osteopenia was found among 304 people, that is 15.9% of examined, while 15 subjects (0.8%) revealed changes characteristic of osteoporosis.

Conclusions.

1. Bone mineral density of 16.7% of examined soldiers serving in different types of military units indicates presence of abnormalities in bone calcification with varying degrees of severity.

2. It is advisable to take among soldiers an extensive health promotion regarding dietary

health education aimed at nutritional prevention of bone mineralization disorders can cause fractures and early elimination soldiers from service.