Your cart

Cancer Studies

Many studies have been published showing flight crews are at higher risk of certain types of cancer compared to other occupations.

One of the main factors believed to contribute to this increased risk is exposure to ionizing radiation at high altitudes. Other factors like circadian rhythm disruption, exposure to cosmic radiation, and irregular sleep patterns may also play a role.

The types of cancer that have been found to be more prevalent among flight crews include:

Skin

Skin Cancer: Flight crews have an increased risk of developing skin cancer due to prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun, which is stronger at higher altitudes. According to a study published by JAMA Dermatology, pilots and cabin crew have approximately twice the incidence of melanoma compared with the general population.

Breast

Breast Cancer: Studies have shown that female flight attendants have an increased risk of developing breast cancer, possibly due to disruptions in their circadian rhythms and hormonal imbalances caused by radiation, irregular work schedules, and time zone changes. A study by the CDC concluded that the frequency of breast cancer was 37% higher in female flight attendants than in women in the US general population.

 Prostate

Prostate Cancer: Male flight crews may be at a higher risk of prostate cancer due to exposure to ionizing radiation at high altitudes. A study by the DOD (Department of Defense) concluded a 17% higher rate of prostate cancer in military pilots:

 Blood

Lymphoma: There is evidence to suggest that flight crews have an increased risk of developing blood cancers like lymphoma and leukemia due to exposure to cosmic radiation.

 

Recent In The News