Comparison of the Prevalence of Metabolic Syndrome among Fast-Attack Submariners with U.S. Civilian Males

摘要

Submariners have historically served in an environment characterized by prolonged physical inactivity and excessive caloric intake. These two conditions are established risk factors for metabolic syndrome. In recent years, metabolic syndrome has garnered attention due to its association with increased risk of cardiovascular disease and diabetes mellitus. There is a concern among Undersea Medicine Officers that the prevalence of metabolic syndrome is on the rise within the submarine community, leading to a potential health care crisis for these servicemen years after they have completed their tours of duty. This paper presents and compares several currently accepted criteria for metabolic syndrome, then applies them to a sample population of local submariners to generate prevalence estimates for the nearly 3,000 sailors serving onboard fast- attack submarines stationed at Groton, CT. These estimates are further analyzed on the basis of age, body-mass index, and rank to compare prevalence rates with the civilian U.S. population and identify the subset of the study population at greatest risk for developing metabolic syndrome. Finally, recommendations are made for future screening of submariners to include fasting blood glucose as a standard test.