Study Links Flight Crews to Higher Cancer Risks

Flight attendants and pilots face a higher risk of dying from cancer related to radiation than even those working with radioactive materials, according to recent research. Cosmic radiation, originating from space, impacts individuals more at high altitudes, affecting frequent flyers such as pilots and flight attendants.

Previously, limited studies hinted at a higher cancer mortality rate in those regularly flying. The latest study, published by JAMA Internal Medicine, examines national data from over 12 million death certificates, focusing on radiation-related cancers. The study investigates cancers like leukemia, lymphoma, multiple myeloma, and cancers of the skin, breast, thyroid, prostate, and central nervous system.

Among over 500 occupations, researchers found that flight attendants faced the highest rate of deaths from radiation-related cancers, followed by pilots. The data showed that these groups had an unusual likelihood of dying from each kind of radiation-linked cancer. Experts, Catherine Olsen and Ken Karipidis, who commented on the study, observed that these groups did not show higher death rates from non-radiation-related cancers. This supports the idea that occupational radiation exposure plays a significant role.

Flight attendants showed about a 50% higher risk of dying from radiation-related cancers compared to the general working population, while pilots had a 36% higher risk. In absolute terms, 6.9% of flight attendant deaths were due to these cancers, which is approximately 1 in 14, compared to 6.7% among pilots and 5% in the general working population, according to Dr. Vishal Patel of Harvard Medical School.

The study has some limitations, acknowledging uncertainties about individual exposure levels and possible misclassification of occupations on death certificates. Moreover, the profession’s lifestyle, involving jet lag and irregular work schedules, could exacerbate cancer risks. The Federal Aviation Administration recognizes the exposure to ionizing radiation for aircrews; however, no federal dose limits or required monitoring are in place.

Dr. Patel stressed, “You can’t manage exposure without measuring it.” Sara Nelson, president of the Association of Flight Attendants-CWA, emphasized that these findings reinforce the need for awareness and responsibility regarding radiation exposure.

Experts suggest routine skin examinations for flight crews and recommend earlier or more frequent mammograms for women in such jobs. Medical professionals should maintain heightened awareness for cancer signs when assessing pilots and flight attendants.