Study Links Aviation Careers to Increased Cancer Risk

Why it matters locally: With major airports like BWI Thurgood Marshall Airport serving as significant regional hubs, this study could have implications for Maryland residents employed in the aviation industry, including pilots and flight attendants based in the state.

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A new study indicates airline pilots and flight attendants face an increased risk of death from certain cancers. Researchers identified a link between these aviation professions and higher mortality rates for cancers associated with cosmic radiation. The study found a higher risk for leukemia among both male and female flight crew members. Female flight attendants also showed increased risks for breast, uterine, and thyroid cancers. Male pilots demonstrated elevated risks for colon, prostate, and liver cancers. Overall, both groups had higher mortality rates from all cancers combined compared to the general population. Cosmic radiation originates in space. Only a small portion of this radiation reaches Earth's surface. However, individuals flying at high altitudes encounter greater exposure levels.