Profile of Steroid Hormones and sex Hormone-Binding Globulin of Elite Soldiers

Abstract

Background: Military police training should characterize the necessary abilities to conduct their activities with excellence. Biochemical parameters have a significant role in the performance of individuals and, therefore, are of crucial importance when trying to improve the teamwork of police officers, particularly for special operations groups. Hence, the use of laboratory analysis in activities that cause great physiological stress is of paramount importance. Objectives: The present study aimed to evaluate the profile of steroid hormones and the sex hormone-binding-globulin of soldiers belonging to a special operations force. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, blood samples of 75 volunteers collected after 12 hours of fasting are analyzed. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics (i.e., mean and standard deviation) and compared to the reference values for each biomarker, referencing each individual in their age group. Results: Most of the participants presented adequate concentrations for their respective ages in relation to the data analyzed. Even the inclusion of individuals from different age groups did not change the good results found in the group. Conclusions: The positive results found in such a heterogeneous group with respect to age group can be attributed to an extremely rigorous selection process and a training program that elevates them to the rank of elite soldiers of the military police.