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Wen CCY, Cherian D, Schenker MT, Jordan AS. Fatigue and Sleep in Airline Cabin Crew: A Scoping Review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:2652. [PMID: 36768014 PMCID: PMC9916232 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20032652] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2022] [Revised: 01/23/2023] [Accepted: 01/27/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Airline cabin crew operate in dynamic work environments that are continuously changing, from unpredictable shift work hours to travelling through multiple time zones. These likely impact cabin crews' overall health and may affect their performance on safety-related tasks. Research on this population has been limited; therefore, the aim was to summarise the relevant literature regarding fatigue, sleepiness and mental health of cabin crew. This review followed the PRISMA-ScR guidelines and conducted a systematic search utilising five databases. The initial search identified 1223 studies, and through vigorous screening processes, 27 studies were selected for this review. Over half of the selected studies focused on international or long-haul flights, and a large proportion of the sample participants were women. Findings suggested a high prevalence of fatigue and sleepiness as well as unsatisfactory sleep quality with elevated susceptibility to sleep disorders. Factors identified with health outcomes were associated with flight operations (e.g., rosters) and individual differences (e.g., age and coping strategies). Regarding mental health, cabin crews are potentially at a greater risk for depression and anxiety compared to the general public. This review draws attention to the importance of using a standardised approach, such as validated measures for fair and consistent inferences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Candice C. Y. Wen
- John Trinder Sleep Laboratory, Melbourne School of Psychological Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia
| | - Darsh Cherian
- John Trinder Sleep Laboratory, Melbourne School of Psychological Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia
| | - Maya T. Schenker
- John Trinder Sleep Laboratory, Melbourne School of Psychological Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia
| | - Amy S. Jordan
- John Trinder Sleep Laboratory, Melbourne School of Psychological Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia
- Institute for Breathing and Sleep, Austin Health, Heidelberg, VIC 3084, Australia
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Wen CCY, Nicholas CL, Clarke-Errey S, Howard ME, Trinder J, Jordan AS. Health Risks and Potential Predictors of Fatigue and Sleepiness in Airline Cabin Crew. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 18:ijerph18010013. [PMID: 33375088 PMCID: PMC7792809 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18010013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2020] [Revised: 12/18/2020] [Accepted: 12/18/2020] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Background: Aviation pilots and cabin crew regularly undertake shift work, and may experience circadian disruption, restricted sleep, sleepiness and impaired health. Research on aviation fatigue and sleepiness has focused on pilots, with less being known about cabin crew. This study aimed to identify likely predictors of fatigue, sleepiness, shift work disorder (SWD) and depression in cabin crew. Methods: An online anonymous survey was distributed to active cabin crew around the world. It measured sleepiness, fatigue, and screened for insomnia, depression and SWD. Information on individuals’ habits and work schedules were collected. Results: 930 valid responses were analysed. 63.5% of the sample had abnormal levels of fatigue and 46.9% experienced excessive daytime sleepiness. 68.0% were at risk for SWD, 57.7% screened positive for insomnia, and 40.0% for depression. Caffeine and use of alcohol and drugs for sleep were independently associated with insomnia and SWD (p < 0.05), whereas, type of route (international, domestic, both) and number of duty days per week predicted fatigue (p < 0.05). Conclusions: Cabin crew had a high prevalence of fatigue, sleepiness and elevated risk for SWD, insomnia and depression. Many cabin crew engaged in behaviours detrimental to good sleep hygiene, highlighting targets for future interventional studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Candice C. Y. Wen
- Melbourne School of Psychological Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia; (C.L.N.); (M.E.H.); (J.T.); (A.S.J.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Christian L. Nicholas
- Melbourne School of Psychological Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia; (C.L.N.); (M.E.H.); (J.T.); (A.S.J.)
- Institute for Breathing and Sleep, Austin Health, Heidelberg, VIC 3084, Australia
| | - Sandy Clarke-Errey
- Statistical Consulting Centre, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia;
| | - Mark E. Howard
- Melbourne School of Psychological Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia; (C.L.N.); (M.E.H.); (J.T.); (A.S.J.)
- Institute for Breathing and Sleep, Austin Health, Heidelberg, VIC 3084, Australia
| | - John Trinder
- Melbourne School of Psychological Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia; (C.L.N.); (M.E.H.); (J.T.); (A.S.J.)
| | - Amy S. Jordan
- Melbourne School of Psychological Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia; (C.L.N.); (M.E.H.); (J.T.); (A.S.J.)
- Institute for Breathing and Sleep, Austin Health, Heidelberg, VIC 3084, Australia
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VAN DEN BERG MJ, SIGNAL TL, GANDER PH. Fatigue risk management for cabin crew: the importance of company support and sufficient rest for work-life balance-a qualitative study. INDUSTRIAL HEALTH 2020; 58:2-14. [PMID: 30996214 PMCID: PMC6997722 DOI: 10.2486/indhealth.2018-0233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2018] [Accepted: 04/04/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Knowledge about cabin crew fatigue associated with ultra-long range (ULR) flights is still limited. Current ULR scheduling for cabin crew is therefore predominantly based on flight crew data. Cabin crews' views on fatigue, and their strategies for mitigating it, have seldom been sought. To better understand the causes and consequences of cabin crew fatigue, semi-structured focus group discussions were held. Thematic analysis was undertaken with data from 25 cabin crew. Participants indicated that the consequences of fatigue are twofold, affecting 1) cabin crew health and wellbeing and 2) safety (cabin, passenger and personal) and cabin service. While the primary causes of fatigue were sleep loss and circadian disruption, participants also identified other key factors including: insufficient rest, high workload, the work environment, a lack of company support, and insufficient fatigue management training. They highlighted the importance of sufficient rest, not only for obtaining adequate recovery sleep but also for achieving a work-life balance. They also highlighted the need for company support, effective communication, and management's engagement with cabin crew in general. We recommend that priority is given to fatigue management training for cabin crew, which may also enhance perceived company support and assist with achieving a better work-life balance.
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Bekö G, Allen JG, Weschler CJ, Vallarino J, Spengler JD. Impact of cabin ozone concentrations on passenger reported symptoms in commercial aircraft. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0128454. [PMID: 26011001 PMCID: PMC4444275 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0128454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2014] [Accepted: 04/27/2015] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Due to elevated ozone concentrations at high altitudes, the adverse effect of ozone on air quality, human perception and health may be more pronounced in aircraft cabins. The association between ozone and passenger-reported symptoms has not been investigated under real conditions since smoking was banned on aircraft and ozone converters became more common. Indoor environmental parameters were measured at cruising altitude on 83 US domestic and international flights. Passengers completed a questionnaire about symptoms and satisfaction with the indoor air quality. Average ozone concentrations were relatively low (median: 9.5 ppb). On thirteen flights (16%) ozone levels exceeded 60 ppb, while the highest peak level reached 256 ppb for a single flight. The most commonly reported symptoms were dry mouth or lips (26%), dry eyes (22.1%) and nasal stuffiness (18.9%). 46% of passengers reported at least one symptom related to the eyes or mouth. A third of the passengers reported at least one upper respiratory symptom. Using multivariate logistic (individual symptoms) and linear (aggregated continuous symptom variables) regression, ozone was consistently associated with symptoms related to the eyes and certain upper respiratory endpoints. A concentration-response relationship was observed for nasal stuffiness and eye and upper respiratory symptom indicators. Average ozone levels, as opposed to peak concentrations, exhibited slightly weaker associations. Medium and long duration flights were significantly associated with more symptoms compared to short flights. The relationship between ultrafine particles and ozone on flights without meal service was indicative of ozone-initiated chemistry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriel Bekö
- International Centre for Indoor Environment and Energy, Department of Civil Engineering, Technical University of Denmark, Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Joseph G. Allen
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Charles J. Weschler
- International Centre for Indoor Environment and Energy, Department of Civil Engineering, Technical University of Denmark, Lyngby, Denmark
- Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey, United States of America
| | - Jose Vallarino
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - John D. Spengler
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
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Jung CC, Liang HH, Lee HL, Hsu NY, Su HJ. Allostatic load model associated with indoor environmental quality and sick building syndrome among office workers. PLoS One 2014; 9:e95791. [PMID: 24759685 PMCID: PMC3997416 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0095791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2014] [Accepted: 03/31/2014] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
This study investigates whether indoor environmental quality (IEQ) influences allostatic load (AL) and whether AL can be a predictor for sick building syndrome (SBS). We also assessed and compared the associations between AL and SBS versus 8-hydroxydeoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) and SBS. A total of 115 office workers from 21 offices completed self-reported SBS questionnaires, and provided 11 biomarkers for their AL. Multiple linear regressions and logistic regression analysis were applied to examine the correlations between IEQ and AL or 8-OHdG and between AL or 8-OHdG and SBS, respectively. Our data revealed that the neuroendocrine system was correlated with CO2, the difference between indoor and outdoor CO2 levels (dCO2), and the indoor-outdoor ratio of CO2 (CO2 I/O). Metabolic system effects were associated with illumination. The relationships between illumination, CO2, dCO2, CO2 I/O and 8-OHdG were consistent with those and AL in specific systems. Furthermore, we found that risks for SBS syndromes were related with neuroendocrine and metabolic system of the AL. 8-OHdG was associated with eye dryness or irritation, eye tiredness and vomiting. We conclude that IEQ significantly influences AL and that AL can be a predictor for reporting SBS with information on system-specific effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chien-Cheng Jung
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan city, Taiwan
| | - Hsiu-Hao Liang
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan city, Taiwan
| | - Hui-Ling Lee
- Department of Chemistry, College of Science and Engineering, Fu Jen Catholic University, New Taipei city, Taiwan
| | - Nai-Yun Hsu
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan city, Taiwan
| | - Huey-Jen Su
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan city, Taiwan
- * E-mail:
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Takaki J. Circulating nitrite and nitrate are associated with job-related fatigue in women, but not in men. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2013; 10:2813-24. [PMID: 23880723 PMCID: PMC3734459 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph10072813] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2013] [Revised: 06/23/2013] [Accepted: 06/26/2013] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
A recent study indicated that serum nitrite and nitrate (NOx) is inversely associated with general fatigue. The purpose of this study was to confirm the negative association between nitric oxide (NO) and fatigue and to examine whether NO can prevent fatigue caused by job strain. The subjects, 570 workers (272 men and 298 women), answered self-administered questionnaires and underwent a medical examination. Job strain was measured using the Job Content Questionnaire. Fatigue was evaluated using the Profile of Mood States. Venous blood samples were collected after overnight fasting. Plasma NOx concentration was determined by the ozone-based chemiluminescence assay. Plasma NOx levels were significantly (p < 0.05) negatively associated with fatigue even after adjustment for job strain and potential confounders in women, but not in men. Significant (p < 0.05) interactions showed that, in women, as the level of the job strain worsened, fatigue was exacerbated, but the plasma NOx seemed to buffer the association, even after adjustment for potential confounders and the interaction between job strain and vegetable intake. In women, NO seemed to be inversely associated with fatigue and to buffer the association between job strain and fatigue, but not in men.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiro Takaki
- Department of Public Health and Occupational Medicine, Mie University Graduate School of Medicine, 2-174 Edobashi, Tsu, Mie 514-8507, Japan.
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