Flight attendants and pilots face the highest risk of radiation-related cancers, surpassing individuals working directly with radioactive materials, according to a recent study. Cosmic radiation originating from space, though minimal on Earth’s surface, poses increased exposure for those operating at high altitudes. Previous studies hinted at elevated cancer mortality rates among frequent fliers, especially pilots and flight attendants.
A new study, published in JAMA Internal Medicine on Monday, analyzed national data from over 12 million death certificates, examining cancer-related death rates linked to radiation exposure. Occupations such as flight attendants and pilots demonstrated the highest percentage of deaths from radiation-related cancers among over 500 different job types. These groups exhibited notably higher odds of succumbing to radiation-related cancer types but did not show heightened mortality rates from non-radiation-related cancers.
The study challenges the notion that excess skin-cancer risk among flight crews stems from extended layovers in sunny locales. Tighter schedules and reduced layover times have minimized prolonged sun exposure during stopovers, indicating that cockpit conditions, rather than outdoor exposure, may be the primary risk environment for pilots.
Flight attendants had approximately 50% higher odds of dying from radiation-related cancers compared to the general working population, while pilots had about a 36% higher risk. Despite certain study limitations such as uncertain exposure levels and potential misclassifications, the research underscores the methodological challenge of distinguishing between various overlapping exposures like cosmic radiation, UV-A light, and circadian disruption.
Furthermore, the study highlighted the lack of federal dose limits or monitoring for radiation exposure in aircrews, emphasizing the importance of addressing radiation risks in flight crew professions. Recommendations included regular skin exams for high-altitude workers and early or more frequent mammograms for women in these roles. Increased vigilance for cancer among pilots and flight attendants during medical evaluations was also advised.
