WASHINGTON, D.C. — A study published Monday by JAMA Internal Medicine shows Flight Attendants and Pilots are at the highest risk of dying from radiation-related cancers. Association of Flight Attendants-CWA President Sara Nelson, representing 55,000 Flight Attendants at 20 airlines, released the following statement:
“This study further confirms radiation related cancers that cause mortality must be acknowledged as occupational deaths.
“The risk is known, but crew are not informed or trained. And, no one is taking responsibility. Unlike standards in Europe, the FAA still does not require airlines to monitor crew exposure to radiation.
“We’re thankful to the reports’ authors. This reinforces what our union has been saying for years: radiation exposure needs to be taken seriously. The industry and regulators must take steps to mitigate risk. Operators must provide care and benefits associated with occupational mortality.”
