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REVIEW PAPER
The cardiovascular effects of military service under extreme conditions: a narrative review
 
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Faculty of Medical Sciences in Katowice, Silesian Medical University, Poland
 
 
Submission date: 2025-11-06
 
 
Final revision date: 2025-11-18
 
 
Acceptance date: 2025-11-19
 
 
Publication date: 2026-06-30
 
 
Corresponding author
Aleksandra Owczarska   

Wydział Nauk Medycznych w Katowicach, Śląski Uniwersytet Medyczny, Katowice
 
 
LW 2026;104(2):119-125
 
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ABSTRACT
Introduction: Military service is associated with exposure to intense physical and mental stress, which affects the cardiovascular system. It remains unclear whether the combination of exertion, operational stress, and extreme environmental conditions can lead to cardiac arrhythmias and hypertension. Material and methods: A review of the scientific literature was conducted, including studies on the effects of exertion, stress, and environmental conditions on the circulatory system in soldiers. Sources included PubMed and Google Scholar. State of knowledge: Prolonged exercise leads to cardiac adaptation, whereas excessive exercise may give rise to exercise-induced cardiac fatigue. Mental stress activates the sympathetic nervous system and the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis, thereby increasing blood pressure and heart rate. High ambient temperature and dehydration increase the risk of arrhythmias and myocardial damage. Conclusions: Military service places considerable strain on the circulatory system. Preventive measures, including regular medical screening, risk factor control, and adaptation programmes, are essential. Further research is needed to identify effective strategies for safeguarding the cardiovascular health of military personnel.
eISSN:1509-5754
ISSN:0024-0745
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