Aviation worker cancer risks from cosmic radiation

A study published in JAMA Internal Medicine has identified an increased risk of death from radiation-linked cancers among aviation workers due to cosmic radiation exposure at high altitudes.

Initial findings indicated that flight attendants and pilots face higher risks of cancers such as lymphoma, breast, thyroid, and prostate cancers, noting that aircrew receive the highest average annual effective dose of ionizing radiation of any U.S. workforce.

Subsequent analysis of over 12 million U.S. death certificates revealed that flight attendants have approximately a 50% higher chance of dying from radiation-linked cancers compared to the general workforce, while pilots face a 36% higher risk. The research identified specific risks for leukemia, multiple myeloma, and central nervous system cancers. Researchers noted that these groups showed no abnormal mortality rates for cancers unrelated to radiation, suggesting occupational exposure is the primary cause.

While the Federal Aviation Administration recognizes ionizing radiation exposure, it does not currently establish dose limits or require monitoring. Experts have suggested mitigation strategies such as annual dermatological exams and early mammography screenings for crew members.