Objective; To evaluate health profile changes after the military deployment of Cheonghae unit in Somali waters
Method; One hundred and nineteen soldiers were measured before and after a 6-month deployment to Somali waters. Measurements included Perceived Stress Questionnaire, Body Mass Index, waist-hip ratio, InBody 3.0 body composition test, clinical laboratory tests (including complete blood count, liver function test and lipid profile) and pedometer.
Results; There were no significant changes before and after deployment in Perceived Stress Questionnaire or clinical laboratory tests. Body Mass Index, waist-hip ratio and body fat were significantly lowered. Steps per day were not related to other findings except age.
Conclusion; The pre-deployment to post-deployment changes were not significant and unlikely to present a major health problem.