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Chronic jet lag produces cognitive deficits
1Department of Psychology, University of Durham, Durham, DH1 3LE, United Kingdom. Kei.Cho@bris.ac.uk
Summary
Repeated jet lag disrupts circadian rhythms, leading to elevated cortisol and cognitive deficits in airline cabin crew. This highlights the long-term mental health impacts of frequent transmeridian travel.
Area of Science:
- Chronobiology
- Occupational Health
- Neuroscience
Background:
- Circadian rhythm disruption from jet lag can negatively impact physical and psychological health.
- The endogenous circadian timing system struggles to adapt quickly to new time zones, causing desynchronization.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of repeated jet lag on the mental abilities of airline cabin crew.
- To assess physiological markers of circadian disruption in cabin crew compared to ground crew.
Main Methods:
- Comparison of airline cabin crew (frequent jet lag) with ground crew.
- Measurement of salivary cortisol levels as a marker for circadian disruption.
- Assessment of cognitive function, potentially including working memory.
Main Results:
- Cabin crew exhibited significantly higher salivary cortisol levels on average working days compared to ground crew.
- Elevated cortisol levels in cabin crew were specifically associated with transmeridian flights, not domestic flights.
- Chronic circadian rhythm disruption over years correlated with cognitive deficits in cabin crew.
Conclusions:
- Repeated jet lag significantly disrupts circadian rhythms, evidenced by elevated cortisol levels in airline cabin crew.
- Long-term exposure to jet lag may lead to cognitive impairments, particularly affecting working memory.
- Occupational health strategies are needed to mitigate the adverse effects of jet lag on airline personnel.