Ukrainian Journal of Natural Sciences · Mar 31, 2026

The role of sex in the development of signs of immunosenescence in education workers under conditions of prolonged stress exposure

By Kobal I, Соколенко СВ

Immunosenescence consists of characteristic age-related changes in various aspects of immune system function. There are studies demonstrating the role of sex in such changes. It is important to consider that immune system aging results from a complex interaction between intrinsic changes associated with cellular aging and environmental factors, particularly chronic stress. OBJECTIVE: To assess the influence of sex on the development of signs of immunosenescence in individuals working in education during periods of prolonged stress exposure. Differential leukocyte counts and C-reactive protein levels were determined in 2021 (during the second year of the COVID-19 pandemic) and in 2023/2024 (during martial law). Data from 110 teaching staff members of secondary education institutions in the city of Cherkasy and Cherkasy District, aged 26–52 years, who underwent routine medical examinations were analyzed. The sex and age group of the individuals examined were taken into account. The parameters were assessed using Diagon D-cell 60 (Hungary) and Biossays 240 Plus (China) biochemical analyzers, with additional analysis of a Pappenheim-stained blood smear. Statistical analysis of the results was performed using Student's t-test with confidence intervals of P < 0.05, P < 0.01, and P < 0.001. Reference values adopted by the clinical diagnostic laboratory were used as normal values. It was found that in 2023/2024, male education workers in the first period of adulthood showed a more pronounced decrease in lymphocyte counts and an increase in band neutrophil counts than females. Consequently, during martial law, male sex is a potential factor associated with an increased risk of developing early signs of stress-induced immunosenescence at a relatively young age. Sex-related variability in the development of proinflammatory phenomena was most apparent in monocyte counts. To predict premature immune system aging during periods of prolonged stress exposure, regular monitoring of its readily available biomarkers is advisable. In particular, these include differential leukocyte counts.

doi.org/10.32782/naturaljournal.15.2026.6Open accessPopulations