Flight attendants and pilots have highest risk of dying from radiation-linked cancers, study says - ABC News - Breaking News, Latest News and Videos

“The latest study published in JAMA Oncology reveals that U.S. flight attendants and pilots face the highest occupational risk of dying from radiation‑linked cancers, outpacing all other professions studied. Researchers analyzed health records of over 2.5 million workers and found a 2‑3‑fold increase in mortality from cancers such as melanoma, thyroid, and brain tumors among airline crew, even after controlling for smoking and other confounders. The findings highlight a gap in current U.S. occupational safety standards, as the Federal Aviation Administration does not require routine radiation monitoring for crew members. Expert Analysis: This evidence is likely to pressure the FAA and OSHA to adopt stricter exposure limits and mandatory dosimetry, which could increase operational costs for airlines. In the short term, airlines may face higher insurance liabilities and could pass some costs onto passengers through fare adjustments.”