Prolonged weightlessness and calcium loss in manCalcium losses occurring in men subjected to weightlessness in orbital space flight for periods of up to twelve weeks were determined, and the data are used to predict the long-term consequences of weightlessness upon the skeletal system. Loss of calcium increased exponentially from about 50 mg/d at the end of the first week to approximately 300 mg/d at the end of 12 weeks. Hypercalciuria reached a constant level within four weeks while fecal calcium losses continued to increase throughout the period of exposure. Calcium losses from the calcaneus were closely correlated with calcium imbalance, but no changes were detected in the mineral mass of the ulna and radius. It is suggested that the demineralization process may not be totally reversible
Document ID
19790027206
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Conference Paper
Authors
Rambaut, P. C. (NASA Johnson Space Center Medical Research Branch, Houston, Tex., United States)
Date Acquired
August 9, 2013
Publication Date
October 1, 1978
Subject Category
Aerospace Medicine
Report/Patent Number
IAF PAPER 78-48
Meeting Information
Meeting: International Astronautical Federation, International Astronautical Congress