Health among commercial airline pilots

Background: The airline pilot works within a complex exposure environment t hat may present physiological challenges to long-term health. Methods: This study investigated self-reported disease outcomes among a large group of a ctive and retired commercial airline pilots in the United States and Canada . A survey methodology was used, including the collection of historical inf ormation. Results: Of 10,678 surveys mailed, 6609 were returned (6533 men, 63 women). Given the limitations of survey methodology, increased disease r ates among pilots were suggested for melanoma, motor neuron disease, and ca taracts. However, rates for other diseases were in general lower than those for the U.S. population. Conclusions: Further study has been initiated to verify and follow reported cases, to expand the study to a larger group, an d to collect more in-depth information on flight histories, occupational ex posures, and lifestyle factors.