Why Airplane Pilots and Cabin Crew Have Twice the Risk of Skin Cancer

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The hidden risk of jobs that fly through the sky: pilots and cabin crew, twice the risk of malignant melanoma

Pilots and cabin crew travel around the world, flying through the blue sky. This profession, which many young people admire, has dangers hidden in it that we may not be aware of. What could they be? As the title says, the risk of skin cancer, especially the most dangerous type, malignant melanoma, is twice as high as in the general public. Today, I’d like to talk about this.

Pilots and cabin crew, twice the risk of malignant melanoma

The study is already more than 10 years old, but it seems many people still do not know about it, so let’s take another look. According to a study published in 2014 by a research team at the University of California, San Francisco, airline pilots and cabin crew had twice the risk of developing malignant melanoma compared with the general public. Even more concerning, the death rate from it was about 40% higher as well. This study was based on a comparative analysis of 19 medical case reports published from 1990 to 2013 and the medical records of 266,000 people, so its reliability can be considered quite high. It is said that this type of skin cancer is not common in Koreans... but a couple of years ago, I was very shocked when someone I knew was diagnosed with malignant melanoma on their hand. First of all, it is not something that never happens, so please think defensively and take preventive measures. Especially if you work in a profession that involves flying, this is even more important.

Pilots and cabin crew, twice the risk of malignant melanoma

Why is a job in the sky so dangerous? The reason is strong ultraviolet exposure.

At an altitude of 30,000 feet (about 9,000 m), where aircraft usually fly, the amount of ultraviolet radiation is twice as high as on the ground. On average, pilots and cabin crew work much longer than the general public in places with strong ultraviolet exposure like this. The surprising fact is that pilots flying at an altitude of about 9,144 m for 56 minutes are exposed to the same amount of UVA as being in a tanning bed for 20 minutes. UVA is an ultraviolet ray that is a major cause of skin aging and skin cancer. While airplane windows block some UVB, they allow UVA to pass through easily, which further increases this risk.

Pilots and cabin crew, twice the risk of malignant melanoma

The situation is even more serious when flying over clouds or snow. That is because the ultraviolet reflectance increases to as much as 85%. This has an effect similar to tanning in front of a mirror. Pilots and cabin crew work for long hours in such extreme environments.

But this risk is not limited to the aviation industry alone. According to a study by the U.S. Department of Defense, the incidence of melanoma among military aircraft pilots and other crew members was as high as 87% higher. This is an even higher figure than in commercial airlines. In addition, the incidence of thyroid cancer was 39% higher, and the incidence of prostate cancer and breast cancer was 16% higher each.

Pilots and cabin crew, twice the risk of malignant melanoma

Did these research findings sound the alarm for the aviation industry and the relevant authorities? In fact, researchers suggested stronger protective measures for the health of airplane pilots and cabin crew, such as installing barriers in the cockpit that can completely block ultraviolet rays. Unfortunately, after that, it seems no meaningful changes were brought about. So, for now, we can only say that personal prevention remains the most important thing.

Pilots and cabin crew, twice the risk of malignant melanoma

Pilots and cabin crew must "themselves" make efforts to protect their skin from dangerous ultraviolet exposure. It is best to keep applying a high-quality sunscreen and, whenever possible, reduce skin exposure. It is also important to detect and address problems early through regular skin examinations. In addition, anyone whose job requires frequent long-haul flights should also pay attention to sun protection. You may want to see the beautiful sky and clouds, but being exposed to strong ultraviolet radiation for too long is not good for the skin.

Pilots and cabin crew, twice the risk of malignant melanoma

Once again, I want to emphasize that while a job that flies freely through the sky has its appeal, you should be aware of the hidden dangers beneath that appeal and take proper preventive measures. I sincerely hope you continue to take good care of your health so that aviation-related jobs can remain dream jobs for many people. To those working in the sky, fighting on today as well! When you pay close attention to the signals your skin is sending, your body and skin can become healthier and more beautiful too. Bellevue will continue to let you know and help you with ways to keep your skin in good condition for a long time. Thank you~! ^^

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