flying

Flying, whether you work on a plane, or simply travelling for work, can present a number of health issues, including jet lag, deep vein thrombosis risk and exposure to cosmic radiation, for those flying a great deal. Find out more about the risks and what you and your employer need to do to manage them.

• What vaccinations do I need before travelling abroad?  more...
• I have seen a lot of stories in the media about deep vein thrombosis. What is it?  more...
• Who is at risk of DVT?  more...
• What are the symptoms of DVT?  more...
• What can I do to prevent DVT?  more...
• Is there anything I can do about jet lag?  more...
• I am a cabin attendant. Am I exposed to cosmic radiation?  more...
• What should my employer be doing about cosmic radiation?  more...
• I am a pilot and I am pregnant. Is my baby at risk from cosmic radiation?  more...

further information

The Civil Aviation Authority’s Aviation Health Unit web pages include guidance for medical professionals and frequently asked questions for air passengers caa.co.uk

The Aerospace Medical Association's Useful tips for airline travel are available in the publications section, along with other information on health and air flight. asma.org

Guidance on travel health, including flying, is available on the NHS choices website, or by calling NHS direct in England and Wales: 0845 4647 or NHS 24 in Scotland: 08454 242424. nhs.uk/livewell/travelhealth

Aviation Health Institute has online advice. www.aviation-health.co.uk

The Health and Safety Executive's radiation web pages include information on air crew and cosmic radiation. hse.gov.uk/radiation

The World Health Organisation has information on ionising radiation, including a Cosmic radiation and air travel information sheet, available online. who.int