Flight attendants and pilots face the highest risk of dying from radiation-related cancers, even more so than individuals working with radioactive materials, according to a study published in JAMA Internal Medicine. The research analyzed over 12 million death certificates, examining mortality rates from cancers scientifically tied to radiation exposure, including leukemia, lymphoma, multiple myeloma, and cancers of the skin, breast, thyroid, prostate, and central nervous system.
Among more than 500 tracked occupations, flight attendants showed the highest percentage of deaths from these radiation-linked cancers, with pilots ranking second. For both professions, the likelihood of dying from each type of radiation-related cancer was notably elevated. Crucially, neither group exhibited higher-than-normal death rates from cancers not associated with radiation, a finding that supports the hypothesis that occupational radiation exposure is the primary driver of the observed increase.
Researchers found that flight attendants had approximately 50% higher odds of dying from a radiation-related cancer compared to the general working population, while pilots had about a 36% higher likelihood. In absolute terms, about 6.9% of flight attendant deaths were attributed to these cancers, roughly 1 in 14, and 6.7% for pilots. This contrasts with the general working population, where these cancers accounted for about 5% of deaths.
The study acknowledges certain limitations, including the inability to precisely quantify radiation exposure for each individual or account for other potential contributing factors like disrupted circadian rhythms due to jet lag and irregular schedules, which can also exacerbate cancer risk. The Federal Aviation Administration has noted that aircrews are exposed to ionizing radiation but does not currently enforce federal dose limits or mandate monitoring for this group.
Experts involved in the study noted that without measurement, exposure cannot be effectively managed. Union representatives have emphasized that while the risks are known, aircrew members often lack education and information about them, and responsibility for addressing the issue remains unclear. The commentary accompanying the study suggests that annual skin examinations and potentially earlier or more frequent mammograms could be warranted for individuals working on high-altitude flights. Medical professionals treating pilots and flight attendants are also advised to maintain a high index of suspicion for cancer when evaluating these patients.