DVT is not a danger to air travellers according to two influential
studies, backing up the views of Dr Ian Perry ON THE SOAPBOX in the
ABTN issue 3 April 2006. Researchers simulating conditions of reduced
cabin pressure and reduced oxygen levels such as may be encountered
during an 8-hour aeroplane flight, found no increase in the activation
of the blood clotting system among healthy individuals, according to a
study in the 17 May issue of JAMA (Journal of the American
Association). In the UK a study by the University of Leicester”s
Department of Cardiovascular Sciences and University of Aberdeen”s
School of Medicine has come to the same conclusion. Also involved was
the RAF Centre of Aviation Medicine at Henlow in Bedfordshire and the
Academic Medical Centre at the University of Amsterdam. This study was
funded by the UK Department for Transport, the UK Department of
Health and the European Commission.
http://www.jamamedia.org