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Diabetes mellitus type 2 in aviators: a preventable disease
Lawrence W Steinkraus1, Walter Cayce, Allan Golding
1USAF School of Aerospace Medicine, Brooks AFB, TX, USA. lawrence.steinkraus@brooks.af.mil
Aviation, Space, and Environmental Medicine
|October 15, 2003
Summary
Obesity and diabetes mellitus type 2 (DMT2) are rising in aviators. While waivers exist, DMT2 impacts flight status, highlighting the need for weight management and risk identification in aviation personnel.
Area of Science:
- Aerospace Medicine
- Occupational Health
Background:
- The global rise in obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus (DMT2) presents a significant challenge to healthcare, including aerospace medicine.
- Metabolic syndrome (MBS) is a key factor linking obesity to DMT2.
Observation:
- A review of U.S. Air Force Aeromedical Consult Service records from 1975-2000 revealed that over 95% of diabetes cases in aviators were DMT2.
- The average body mass index (BMI) for these aviators was 26.2.
- Aeromedical agencies grant restricted waivers for DMT2, with limitations for high-performance aircraft.
Findings:
- The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) permits most pilots with stable DMT2 to fly with restrictions.
- Obesity and MBS are increasingly common in the aviation population.
Implications:
- Proactive strategies to manage weight gain and identify individuals at risk for DMT2 are crucial for aviation safety and health.
- Continued monitoring and research are needed to address the impact of DMT2 on flight operations.