OCCUPATIONAL EXPOSURE TO COSMIC RADIATION EFFECTS IN AIRCREW: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW

Abstract

Introduction/Objectives: Ionizing cosmic radiation is a significant occupational risk for aircrews. This study synthesizes evidence published between January 2020 and June 2025 on its health effects, the most associated pathologies, and recommended surveillance measures. Methods: A systematic review was conducted in PubMed/MEDLINE, SciELO, and BVS/LILACS, following PICO criteria to include original studies and reviews addressing health effects (cancer, cataracts, reproductive disorders, among others) in aircrews. Results: Ten articles were included. Evidence shows a consistent association between exposure and higher cancer risk, mainly melanoma (SIR ≈ 2.0) and breast cancer (SIR ≈ 1.5). An increase in nuclear cataracts with a clear dose-response relationship and reproductive risks, such as spontaneous abortions above 0.36 mSv, were also found. Biological damage is linked to oxidative stress and DNA breaks, exacerbated by high biological effectiveness of neutrons. Factors such as circadian rhythm disruption act as confounders. Regulation is uneven: robust in Europe and North America, almost absent in Latin America. Conclusion: Cosmic radiation is a measurable and underestimated risk. It is urgent to implement mandatory dosimetric and medical surveillance, along with coherent international regulatory frameworks.