Systolic blood pressure in fighter pilots after 12-15 years service

Systolic blood pressure (SBP) was measured at entry and after 12-15 years in 112 fighter pilots and compared to 112 transport and helicopter pilots. The pilots were 20-24 years old on entry into the study. Mean SBP +/- 1 S.D. on entry was 122 +/- 12 mm Hg in fighter pilots and 124 +/- 12 mm Hg in transport and helicopter pilots. After 12-15 years follow-up the mean SBP was 118 +/- 12 mm Hg in both groups. We conclude that the stress of flying fighter aircraft for 12-15 years is not associated with an increased risk of hypertension.