Norbert J Guettler, Andrew Cox, David A Holdsworth, Kim Rajappan, Edward D Nicol; Possible safety hazards with cardiac implantable electronic devices in those w

Norbert J Guettler; Will sex differences have to be considered in future studies on health effects of occupational physical activity?, European Journal of Preve

Background Pilots are working in a unique and exacting environment with hypobaric hypoxia and acceleration forces. In military flying, missions are often challenging with possible combat scenarios and in remote areas with impaired infrastructure. Methods We analysed all German military pilots and pilot candidates with confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection, who have all been evaluated prior to their return to flying duties between April 2020 and January 2022 by the German Air Force Centre of Aerospace Medicine. Symptoms, comorbidities, scope of investigations, examination results, vaccination status and aeromedical disposition are described. Results 90 pilots (82 active pilots and 8 pilot candidates) with a median age of 35 years (IQR 15 years) were included. 78 pilots (87%) reported symptoms, with median duration of 6 days. Symptoms included influenza-like symptoms (70.0%), headache (45.6%), impaired physical fitness (37.8%), anosmia/ageusia (36.7%), fever (27.8%), exertional dyspnoea (8.9%), memory and concentration disorders (4.4%), diarrhoea (3.3%) and dyspnoea at rest (2.2%). Only one pilot (1.1%) was hospitalised, two (2.2%) required outpatient treatment. All pilots were allowed to return to unrestricted flying duties after the assessment, with eight (8.9%) reporting ongoing mild symptoms. Conclusion Due to their demanding working environment, pilots, and other high-hazard employees, should undergo medical evaluation prior to return to their duties to exclude ongoing symptoms and the development of post-acute COVID-19 or post-COVID-19 syndrome. The scope of examinations may depend on the severity of the disease, comorbidities, the vaccination status, the predominant SARS-CoV-2 variant and the type of aircraft flown.

Background: The prevalence of dietary supplement (DS) and energy drink (ED) usage in military personnel differs from branch to branch and is between 55% and 76% (higher values in special operations forces). Aviators with highly demanding tasks might be especially interested in using dietary supplements. To date, there are only limited data available for this special profession inside the military. Methods: An internet-based survey was conducted on the prevalence of DS and ED usage, the reasons for their usage and the place of purchase for all wings of the German Armed Forces. Results: Of the 181 pilots who participated in the survey, 34% used DSs and 16% EDs. Usage was linked to sports activities but not to the type of aircraft. DSs were purchased on the internet by 50% of the respondents; mostly protein supplements, magnesium and omega-3fatty acids. Only 42% said they would feel an effect from taking DSs. Conclusions: Although the present study showed that the prevalence of usage was comparable to that of the civilian population, the sources of supply and the range of the substances taken give cause for concern. This calls for education and information campaigns to make the pilots aware of the possible risks to their health.