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As Coloradans, we are uniquely aware of the incredible strength of the sun’s ultraviolet rays. In the past, we’ve discussed how people in Colorado are more susceptible to skin cancer (Colorado has the highest per-capita rate of skin cancer in the country). We’ve also discussed how farmers and ranchers are at a greater risk of skin cancer due to the amount of time they spend out of doors. Now, we will help shed light on another concerning statistic: the rate of skin cancer among airline pilots and flight crew members is nearly double that of the general population.
Pilots Face UV Radiation at Higher Elevations
All it takes is one trip to the mountains on a sunny day to feel the effects of our proximity to the sun. Simply put, the higher we are, the more our bodies are affected by ultraviolet rays. UV exposure at higher elevations is significantly greater than at sea level. In general, UV radiation increases 6-10 percent for every 1,000 feet of elevation gain. When we consider that commercial airliners fly between 31,000 and 42,000 feet—and that the men and women who comprise airline crews make, on average, 3 flights per day—its easy to see the risk that pilots and other crew members make on a daily basis to ensure the safe travel of their passengers.
Airplane Bodies and Windows Don’t Defend Against all UV Radiation
Despite the reinforced structure of airplane bodies and windows, they are unable to entirely shield pilots and crew members from the harmful effects of UVA and UVB rays. Even though aircraft windows are designed to block most UVB rays, UVA rays can still easily pass through, contributing to the cumulative UV exposure experienced during flight.
Although there have been several advances made in air travel safety for passengers and flight crew alike, airplane windows and windshields are still not able to fully block the radiation from the sun.
Pilots are at an Increased Risk for All Types of Skin Cancer
Of the three major types of skin cancer, basal cell carcinoma is the most common, accounting for 3.6 million diagnoses per year. This type of skin cancer forms in the skin’s basal cells, which are responsible for producing new skin cells as old ones die off. Basal cell carcinoma most often forms on areas of the skin that have had previous sun exposure, such as the face, hands, scalp, and neck.
Squamous cell carcinoma is the second most common form of skin cancer. Although most cases are not life-threatening, this cancer can have aggressive behavior, metastasize, and it accounts for approximately 15,000 deaths per year. It forms in the squamous cells that make up the middle and outermost layers of the skin.
As always, one of our top concerns for patients is the formation of melanoma. While this form of cancer is relatively rare compared to other skin cancers (only 1% of all skin cancer cases are melanomas) it is responsible for the most skin cancer related deaths, with nearly 20 Americans dying from complications of melanoma every day. Because aircrew experience a staggering 87% higher rate of melanoma than the general public, it is vital that they understand the risks associated with their profession and take the steps necessary to keep themselves safe.
What Can Pilots and Airline Crew Do to Keep Their Skin Safe from Cancer?
When discussing sun safety, we always like to stress the importance of limiting sun exposure. Of course, for airline crew, this is an unreasonable request. Thankfully, there are some other steps pilots and flight attendants can take to keep their skin cancer-free.
Firstly, it is incredibly important to wear a broad-spectrum, physical sunscreen that protects from both UVA and UVB radiation. At shopclara.com, we offer a variety of options, including our UV Luxe+ (which is especially great for air travel as it includes a moisturizing agent) and EltaMD’s UV Elements. Both of these sunscreens have the added benefit of a natural tint to help blend with skin tone.
Additionally, pilots and crew members should wear protective clothing while in the air. UPF stands for ultraviolet protection factor and is the rating system for fabrics. UPF ratings range between single-digit numbers (a plain white t-shirt has an average UPF rating of 5) and 50+. These numbers, when divided into 100, denote the amount of UV radiation that penetrates the fabric to reach the skin beneath. For example, a UPF 5 rating means that as much as 20% of UV rays reach the skin, while a UPF of 50 reduces that number to only 2%. Wearing clothing with a higher UPF rating and UV protective sunglasses is hugely beneficial in the fight against skin cancer.
Finally, airline crew should make sure to schedule annual total body skin exams with a dermatologist. Dermatologists are especially adept at spotting troublesome moles. Vanguard provides onsite testing to ensure quick and proper detection, treatment, and, if necessary, excision of potentially harmful skin cancers. Our Mohs surgeons, Dr. Vinh Chung and Dr. Renata Prado, believe that an annual total body skin exam is the best route to the early detection and early cure of skin cancer.
Schedule An Appointment a Dermatologist Today
If you or someone you know works for an airline, we strongly advise you to contact Vanguard today at (719) 355-1585 to discuss your options for safeguarding against skin cancer.
If you would like to speak with one of our trusted dermatology providers or schedule a total body skin exam, contact us today at 719-355-1585 or fill out our online appointment request form.
