ASSESSMENT OF PHYSICA L ACT IVITY OF MEMBERS OF THE HELICO PTER EMERGENCY MEDICA L SERVICE (HEMS)

Abstract

The aim: Assessment of physical activity of members of the Helicopter Emergency Medical Service. Material and methods: The study was conducted in a group of 131 people (65 paramedics, 66 pilots), members of HEMS teams from all bases in Poland, aged 27-59. The characteristics of physical activity was obtained using the author’s questionnaire. Results: The mean age of the study population was 42.73 ± 9.58 years. Pilots were significantly older than paramedics and had significantly higher BMI values (p < 0.05). No significant relationship between the age and BMI in the analyzed groups was found (p > 0.05), while the relationship between the frequency of physical activity and BMI was demonstrated. 70% of subjects undertook physical activity less than three times a week. The most frequently chosen forms were cycling, walking and swimming. Paramedics statistically significant more often than pilots chose wall climbing (p = 0.001). Downhill skiing (61%) was the most common declared winter sport played by pilots, while hiking in the mountains – by paramedics (49%). The most important reason for pilots to take up physical activity was concern for their health (47%), while for paramedics – the pleasure (63%). Paramedics statistically significant more often than pilots indicated a large number of other activities (90.6 vs. 74.2%) and financial issues (18.8 vs. 6.1%) as barriers that prevented more involvement in physical activities. Conclusions: The frequency of physical activity undertaken by HEMS members is insufficient. Low physical activity of HEMS team members has an adverse effect on their nutritional status. It is necessary to take initiatives to promote physical activity in this professional group.