Air travel taking its toll on health
POSTED February 20, 2009 - 15:19 | POSTED BY Jaspreet Kaur
Last edited by Shikha Patial on February 20, 2009 - 15:19
Illinois, February 20: Travelling by air is getting tougher for many older passengers according to the U.S. researchers. With the ever-increasing duration of flights, there has been a parallel increase in health problems.
According to a Lancet review, travellers as well as authorities should beware of the possible risks. These health problems range from blood clots to flu pandemics. Researchers have warned that extended flight times can aggravate health-related problems.
Analysis of previous studies done on the dangers to health associated with flying revealed a relationship between air travel and venous thromboembolism (VTE). VTE is a condition wherein a blood clot develops in a veindefine. This clot travels through the body and reaches the lung.
The latest review also found that the probability of developing clots does not depend on whether the passenger is travelling by economy or business class.
Around 75 percent of air-travel instances have been attributed to very less movement while on flight.
The maximum risk is with flights of eight hours or more. But another study has revealed that the risk starts to increase as the flight time crosses four hours.
With the coming up of latest aircrafts like Airbus A380 and Boeing 777-LR, the flight could stretch up to as long as 20 hours. But the researchers did add that the comfortable cabin air quality and passenger seating facilities can add to the passenger’s relaxing journey.
The probability of getting affected by VTE can be lessened significantly with the intake of plenty of fluids, taking a walk through the cabin or shifting position. Also, using compression stockings can be helpful. However, there is a doubt, if aspirin-use can be an effective preventive measure.
Dr Mark Gendreau from the Lahey Clinic Medical Center was quoted as saying, “How individuals with compromised cardiacdefine and pulmonarydefine function can endure long air travel needs to be assessed, and current screening guidelines should undergo re-assessment.”
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