학술논문
Effects of training flights of combat jet pilots on parameters of airway function, diffusing capacity and systemic oxidative stress, and their association with flight parameters
Document Type
article
Author
Source
European Journal of Medical Research, Vol 29, Iss 1, Pp 1-13 (2024)
Subject
Language
English
ISSN
2047-783X
Abstract
Abstract Background Fighter aircraft pilots are regularly exposed to physiological challenges from high acceleration (Gz) forces, as well as increased breathing pressure and oxygen supply in the support systems. We studied whether effects on the lung and systemic oxidative stress were detectable after real training flights comprising of a wide variety of exposure conditions, and their combinations. Methods Thirty-five pilots of the German Air Force performed 145 flights with the Eurofighter Typhoon. Prior to and after flight lung diffusing capacity for carbon monoxide (DLCO) and nitric oxide (DLNO), alveolar volume (VA), and diffusing capacities per volume (KCO, KNO) were assessed. In addition, the fractional concentration of exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO) was determined, and urine samples for the analysis of molecular species related to 8-hydroxy-2’-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) were taken. For statistical analysis, mixed ANOVA models were used. Results DLNO, DLCO, KNO, KCO and VA were reduced (p