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Lookup NU author(s): Dr Claire WoodORCiD
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Objectives To quantify changes in vitamin D and matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP9) in submariners over a single long patrol and compare the data to a group of non-deploying servicemen from their base port. Methods A prospective time-series analysis was performed. Blood samples were taken from 49 submariners deploying on patrol and 43 shore-side controls from the base port (naval officers from base or non-deploying submariners), following a winter ashore at latitude 56 north. Samples were drawn immediately before the submarine sailed, in January, and again in the final week of patrol 85 days later. Paired pre-patrol and late samples from each individual were assayed together and changes in vitamin D and MMP9 were assessed. Results Mean pre-patrol vitamin D concentrations were 58 and 49 nmol/L for the controls and submariners, respectively. Mean vitamin D concentrations increased in controls as expected (mean increase 12.6 nmol/L), but not in the submariners (mean decrease 1.6 nmol/L). MMP9 levels were significantly higher in submariners pre-patrol, and increased significantly during the patrol. There was a significant inverse correlation between MMP9 and vitamin D levels (r=-0.41, p=0.01). Conclusions This is the first study to quantify vitamin D and MMP levels in submariners. Circulating vitamin D concentrations on board were insufficient to prevent a rise in M MP. This has potential for adverse health effects and requires further study.
Author(s): Baker A, Wood CL, Wood AM, Timms P, Allsopp AJ
Publication type: Article
Publication status: Published
Journal: Occupational & Environmental Medicine
Year: 2014
Volume: 71
Issue: 2
Pages: 104-108
Print publication date: 04/12/2013
ISSN (print): 1351-0711
ISSN (electronic): 1470-7926
Publisher: BMJ Publishing Group
URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.1136/oemed-2013-101793
DOI: 10.1136/oemed-2013-101793
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