Author(s): Lauren M Visconti, Andrea C Givens, Lorraine P Turcotte, Laura J Polombo and Karen R Kelly

Abstract: To date, there is limited data on the hormone responses that occur during intensive operational training in U.S. Special Forces Operators (SFO). Therefore, the purpose of this investigation is to: (1) quantify hormone profiles of SFO, and (2) examine hormone responses that occur following 5 days of Winter Warfare Training (WWT) in U.S. Army SFO. Blood samples were collected at baseline, immediately pre-WWT, and post-WWT. Reductions in both total and free testosterone were observed from baseline to pre-WWT (p<0.001), and from pre-WWT to post-WWT (p<0.001). The total testosterone to cortisol ratio decreased from baseline to pre-WWT (p<0.001) and from pre- to post-WWT (p=0.002).Thyroid hormones were elevated pre-WWT relative to baseline (p<0.05). Leptin decreased from baseline to pre-WWT (p<0.001) and from pre- to post-WWT (p<0.001). Our data demonstrates heightened physiological strain both prior to and following WWT, as exhibited by changes in growth-related, stress, and metabolic hormones.

DOI: 10.33545/27077012.2024.v5.i2c.285

Pages: 158-164 | Views: 368 | Downloads: 167

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