The Effect of Physical Activity on Bone Density in Military Personnel

Objective: The aim of this study was to assess the effect of life style factors including physical activity, calcium intake, and smoking on bone mineral density (BMD).\udMaterials and Methods: From January 2012 to May 2013, calcaneal BMD of 335 male military personnel (aged between 35-55 years) in two equal separate groups; operative (active field soldiers) and non-operative (official army staff) were evaluated with dual X-ray and laser Calscan. Information about lifestyle factors including smoking, calcium intake and physical activity were collected through a questionnaire. Operative personnel had daily regular physical activity. Operatives were compared with non-operative personnel who did not perform the regular active field training maneuvers.\udResults: The mean age of participant was 44.7±0.5 years and all were male. The rate of osteopenia and osteoporosis was lower in operative group than in non-operative group. Linear regression revealed that BMD is significantly associated with job (p<0.001), age (p<0.001), smoking (p<0.01), calcium intake (p<0.05), and years of physical activity (p<0.001).\udConclusion: Based on the findings of the study, years of regular physical activity and mechanical loading were the strongest predictors of calcaneus BMD