Flight attendants and pilots face a higher risk of radiation-related cancers compared to those who handle radioactive materials, a recent study reveals. Cosmic radiation, originating from space, poses a greater exposure risk for individuals flying at high altitudes due to limited Earth surface penetration.
Previous studies hinted at elevated cancer death rates among frequent fliers, especially pilots and flight attendants. The latest study, published by JAMA Internal Medicine, analyzed over 12 million death certificates to assess radiation-related cancer death rates among various occupations. Flight attendants and pilots had the highest percentage of radiation-related cancer deaths, with significantly increased odds for each specific type of cancer linked to radiation exposure.
The study debunked assumptions that flight crews’ skin cancer risk stemmed from sunny layovers, attributing the risk to occupational radiation exposure instead. Flight attendants faced a 50% higher chance of dying from radiation-related cancers compared to the general working population, while pilots had a 36% higher risk.
Acknowledging study limitations, the authors highlighted challenges in disentangling multiple overlapping exposures like cosmic radiation, UV-A light, and circadian disruption. The Federal Aviation Administration recognizes aircrews’ ionizing radiation exposure but lacks federal dose limits or monitoring requirements.
The report emphasizes the need for increased awareness and management of radiation exposure risks among flight personnel. Recommendations include regular skin examinations, early or frequent mammograms for female high-altitude workers, and heightened cancer vigilance by healthcare providers for pilots and flight attendants.