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Biochemical screening of airmen
T Hardarson1, U Thordarson, E O Arnarson
1Civil Aviation Administration, Reykjavík, Iceland.
Aviation, Space, and Environmental Medicine
|October 1, 1988
Summary
Routine biochemical screening for aviation professionals identified elevated cholesterol, blood glucose, and gamma-glutamyl transferase (G-GT). Interventions for high G-GT significantly reduced levels, demonstrating the value of regular health monitoring for airmen.
Area of Science:
- Aviation Medicine
- Biochemistry
- Occupational Health
Background:
- Aviation personnel require regular health assessments.
- Biochemical and hematological parameters are crucial indicators of health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness of routine biochemical screening in Icelandic airmen.
- To identify potential health abnormalities in aviation professionals.
Main Methods:
- Biochemical and hematological screening was conducted on Icelandic airmen starting in 1983.
- Tests included hemoglobin, hematocrit, blood glucose, cholesterol, triglycerides, liver enzymes (ASAT, ALAT, G-GT), and serum creatinine.
- Follow-up assessments were performed on individuals with elevated G-GT levels.
Main Results:
- No hematological abnormalities were found.
- Elevated serum cholesterol, blood glucose, and G-GT levels were observed in some airmen.
- Pilots showed lower triglycerides, ALAT, and ASAT than captains.
- Airmen with high G-GT levels who received advice experienced a significant reduction in G-GT.
Conclusions:
- Routine biochemical testing is valuable for airmen's health surveillance.
- Screening for blood glucose, cholesterol, and G-GT can detect potential health issues.
- Intervention based on G-GT levels can lead to improved health outcomes.