[Hormonal metabolic status of the human body under the conditions of the Far North].

The concentrations of hormones (ACTH, cortisol, aldosterone, thyrotrophin, thyroxine, triiodothyronine, growth hormone, insulin, prolactin and testosterone), electrolytes (Na and K) as well as glucose and triglycerides were measured in 10 athletes who made a 380 km ski expedition in the Far North at ambient temperatures of -32 to -34 degrees C. Human adaptation to the geographic and climatic conditions of high latitudes was accompanied by noticeable changes in the incretory function of the adenopituitary, thyroid gland, adrenals and gonads. The data obtained indicate that a ski trip in the Far North produces a distinct stress with physical and cold components being predominant.