Monitoring cardiovascular risk in the armed forces: basis for strategic health prevention

Abstract In the era of growing emphasis on prevention, the assessment of the prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors forms the basis for effective interventions, particularly in military environments that require full physical and mental fitness. Systematic monitoring of the health status of this group becomes not only an element of prevention, but also a tool for building long-term operational readiness of armed forces. The aim of the study was to assess the occurrence of risk factors for cardiovascular diseases among soldiers and their self-awareness regarding these factors. A convenience sampling method was used. Biochemical parameters were measured. Soldiers' self-awareness was assessed using a questionnaire. Statistical analyses included the Mann-Whitney U test and the Kruskall-Wallis H test. Spearman's rank correlation coefficient and post-hoc analyses: multiple comparisons of mean ranks for all samples described the correlation. The significance level was p≤0.05. The study group consisted of 250 soldiers, including 79,2% men. The respondents were aged 20-67 years (M=41.34±8.79). 52% were non-commissioned officers, 23.6%-junior officers, 15.2%-senior officers, and 9.2%-private soldiers. The study analyzed soldiers' socio-demographic variables in correlation with quantitative risk factors for cardiovascular disease (Tab.1). A statistically significant relationship was observed, with a weak correlation between gender and systolic blood pressure (p=0.000, rho=0.339), diastolic blood pressure (p=0.000, rho=0.286), LDL (p=0.000, rho=0.213), HDL (p=0.000, rho=0.309), total cholesterol (p=0.000, rho=0.155), TG (p=0.000, rho=0.296), and non-HDL (p=0.003, rho=0.263). A relationship was found between the professional corps and selected heart disease risk factors, i.e., HDL (p=0.026), TG (p=0.002), with significant differences in the group of non-commissioned officers and junior officers, i.e., p=0.0281 and p=0.001, (Fig.1). As many as 47.6% of soldiers smoked cigarettes (p=0.579), including 54.6% of non-commissioned officers and 20.2% of junior officers. Overweight was reported by 32.1% (p=0.023), with no significant differences within the professional corps, and obesity by 14.2% (p=0.543), including 1/4 junior officer (23.9%). An unbalanced diet was reported by 39.1% of soldiers (p=0.059). 54.5% of soldiers were exposed to stress (p=0.099). This factor was indicated by 67.6% of senior officers, 61.1% of junior officers and 47.2% of non-commissioned officers. The demands of military service – high physical and mental performance and exposure to stressors – increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Regular assessment using precise tools is crucial for early detection of threats, targeted prevention strategies, and enhanced operational readiness of the armed forces. Effective health management through continuous monitoring of risk and early interventions may substantially reduce healthcare costs and improve the efficiency of national defense activities.Tab.1For image description, please refer to the figure legend and surrounding text. Fig.1For image description, please refer to the figure legend and surrounding text.