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Potential Venous Thromboembolism Risk in Female Astronauts
Aerospace Medicine and Human Performance
|April 25, 2020
Summary
Spaceflight does not appear to increase venous thromboembolism (VTE) risk in female astronauts, even when using combined oral contraceptives (COCs). This study found no evidence of elevated VTE risk factors associated with space travel.
Area of Science:
- Space Medicine
- Hematology
- Astronaut Health
Background:
- The risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE) in space is unknown.
- Combined oral contraceptives (COCs) are known to double VTE risk on Earth.
- Female astronauts may use COCs, necessitating VTE risk assessment in space.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine if spaceflight elevates VTE risk in female astronauts.
- To assess the impact of combined oral contraceptives (COCs) on VTE risk during spaceflight.
- To evaluate hematological and biochemical markers for VTE risk factors in astronauts.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of longitudinal health data from 38 female astronaut-flights (2000-2014).
- Evaluation of pre- and postflight blood markers.
- Comparison of astronaut data to terrestrial high-risk VTE levels and assessment of COC impact.
Main Results:
- No venous thromboembolism (VTE) events were observed in the study cohort.
- Analysis revealed no evidence of increased VTE risk factors associated with spaceflight for female astronauts.
- Combined oral contraceptive (COC) use did not correlate with elevated VTE risk in this astronaut population.
Conclusions:
- Spaceflight does not appear to increase VTE risk in female astronauts.
- Combined oral contraceptive (COC) use is likely safe for female astronauts regarding VTE risk.
- Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is crucial for VTE risk reduction in astronauts.
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