Flight Crews Lead US Occupations in Radiation-Related Cancer Deaths, Study Finds

A new analysis published in JAMA Internal Medicine examined mortality data from 503 U. S. occupations and found that flight attendants had the highest proportion of deaths from radiation‑related cancers, with pilots ranking second. Both groups outpaced even workers who routinely handle radioactive materials. The study’s authors note that while the data clearly show a higher risk for aviation personnel, the analysis cannot directly establish that exposure to ionizing radiation causes the increased cancer mortality. The findings raise questions about the long‑term health risks faced by airline crews and suggest a need for further research to clarify causality and inform protective measures.