Flight Safety Foundation Human Factors & Aviation Medicine 2004

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November–December 2004

Australian Survey Finds Pilot Confidence in Workplace Safety Climate 6 pages. [PDF 55K]

The Australian Transport Safety Bureau report on the survey said that improvements in the safety climate could enhance a safety record that already has benefited from technical solutions to problems that caused accidents and incidents.

September–October 2004

Prompt Treatment Can Limit Ill Effects of Peptic Ulcers, Related Gastrointestinal Diseases 4 pages. [PDF 75K]

Peptic ulcer disease is one of the most common ailments involving the upper gastrointestinal tract. In most cases, however, the bacteria that cause the ulcers can be treated and eliminated, and a pilot affected by the disease can be back at work within weeks.

July–August 2004

Prompt Treatment May Minimize Knee Problems and Their Interference WithFlight Duties — and Daily Routines 8 pages [PDF 261K]

Knee injuries and diseases such as arthritis of the knee are common. Treatments may be as simple as resting or modifying exercise routines or as complex as a surgical replacement of the knee.

May–June 2004

Undiagnosed Coronary Artery Disease Presents Risks of Incapacitation and Sudden Death 8 pages. [PDF 98K]

For pilots, coronary artery disease is a common cause of medical disqualification. Nevertheless, in many circumstances, pilots who have been treated for the disease — either with medication, surgery or other medical procedures — often regain medical certification and continue their flying careers.

March–April 2004

Awareness of Causes and Symptoms of Flicker Vertigo Can Limit Ill Effects 6 pages. [PDF 92K]

Pilots (and others exposed to some types of flickering lights) may have reactions ranging from mild discomfort to seizures and unconsciousness. Nevertheless, they often fail to recognize the problem as flicker vertigo.

January–February 2004

Proper Treatment Minimizes Risks of Obstructive Sleep Apnea 6 pages. [PDF 108K]

Without treatment, the repeated awakenings caused by obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) can result not only in daytime sleepiness but also in depression, irritability and memory problems. OSA also may increase the risk of heart attack and stroke.