Cancer risks from cosmic radiation exposure in flight: A review

Area of Science:

• Occupational health
• Radiation biology
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Aircrew are occupationally exposed to elevated levels of cosmic ionizing radiation (CIR) from galactic and solar sources.
• CIR exposure for aircrew significantly exceeds that of the general population and radiation workers.
• Numerous epidemiological studies indicate higher cancer incidence in aircrew compared to the general population.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review and synthesize current epidemiological findings on cancer incidence and mortality among aircrew in relation to CIR exposure.
• To identify limitations and challenges in existing research on CIR and aircrew cancer.
• To guide future research by highlighting key concerns and research gaps in this occupational group.

Main Methods:

• Comprehensive literature review of epidemiological studies on aircrew cancer and CIR exposure.
• Analysis of trends in cancer incidence and mortality data within aircrew populations.
• Evaluation of methodological challenges in assessing CIR exposure and confounding factors in flight environments.

Main Results:

• Consistent observations of elevated cancer rates in aircrew across multiple studies.
• Lack of established causal link between CIR exposure and cancer in aircrew, despite high exposure levels.
• Significant challenges in isolating CIR effects from other occupational and lifestyle factors.

Conclusions:

• Aircrew cancer risks warrant continued investigation due to high CIR exposure.
• Methodological advancements are crucial for accurately assessing CIR's role in aircrew carcinogenesis.
• Future research should focus on overcoming current limitations to better understand and mitigate occupational cancer risks.