Polish Ministry of Health is to allocate PLN 37 million (more than € 8.5 mln) to combat excess weight in men and to train them in healthy eating as part of the national health program.
According to the Military Institute of Hygiene and Epidemiology in Warsaw, about 60% of Polish soldiers engaged in staff work are overweight or obese.
Doctors believe that this is due to the fact that the military are eating too much junk food and have little exercise.
It is noted that the problem affects more and more young men — from 25 to 35 years old. The combat units typically have no problem with overweight soldiers.
Polish doctors point out that the problem of excess weight is often found with firefighters and police.
To combat excess weight in the security forces, the Polish Ministry of Health has prepared two programs. The first is to increase the amount of physical excercises for the military and security services, the second is aimed at promoting a healthy lifestyle and proper nutrition.
From 1 January 2010, the Polish Armed Forces have completely switched to contract service. The Polish Army has more than 100 thousand people on active duty and 20 thousand of active personnel in reserve. If necessary, around 240K military personnel can be mobilized.
