Why are pilots more susceptible to skin cancer?

Pilots face an increased risk of developing deadly skin cancer due to their exposure to cockpit radiation equivalent to the radiation levels of artificial tanning beds.

Researchers at the University of California (USA) measured the amount of ultraviolet (UV) radiation in pilots' cockpits during flights. They then compared these results with radiation measurements taken in artificial tanning beds.

The research team found that pilots flying for an hour at an altitude of over 9,100 meters received the same amount of radiation as lying on a tanning bed for 20 minutes. They believe that the radiation levels may be even higher when pilots fly through dense clouds and snowfields, as these can reflect up to 85% of UV radiation.

Although short-wavelength UVB rays cannot easily penetrate glass or plastic windows, long-wavelength UVA rays are much more likely to do so. Both types of UV rays can cause skin aging and cancer.

Dangerous exposure occurs because the aircraft's windshield, constructed from polycarbonate or multi-layered composite glass, does not completely block UVA ultraviolet radiation. Meanwhile, according to a report published on the website of the journal JAMA Dermatology, UVA radiation can damage DNA in cells and has been shown to contribute to the formation of melanomas – a malignant and deadly form of skin cancer.

The flight crew also faces an increased risk of exposure to cosmic rays such as X-rays, gamma rays, and subatomic particles from space.

The research team suggested that the UV protection capabilities of aircraft windshields need to be improved to provide a safer working environment for flight crews. They also recommended that pilots and crew members use sunscreen and undergo regular skin examinations for early detection of skin conditions.

Experts hope for further research to understand the amount of radiation that other airline employees are exposed to during their work.

According to the Daily Mail