Alcohol and air travel: health risks from low air pressure

Alcohol and air travel: health risks from low air pressure

In today's globalized world, flying has become an everyday method of transportation. Many people like to treat themselves to a drink during a long-haul flight to make the long journey more pleasant. But new research highlights the potential health risks that consuming alcohol in flight conditions can pose.

Doctors and scientists have now published the results of a study carried out by the German Center for Aerospace Medicine (DLR). This was published in the specialist magazine Thorax and sheds a critical light on common practices on airplanes. The research has shown that drinking alcohol under the special conditions at an altitude of 10,000 meters can have a negative impact on health.

Study results: Oxygen levels in the blood decrease

Under normal conditions, the blood of a healthy person has an oxygen content of around 95 percent. But during a long-haul flight, where the cabin air pressure conditions correspond to an altitude of around 2,438 meters, this oxygen level drops to an alarming 85 percent, especially when alcohol is consumed.

The study included 48 participants aged 18 to 40 who were divided into two groups. While one group remained in a controlled environment under normal pressure, the other group was exposed to artificial altitude conditions. The researchers observed what happened when some subjects consumed alcohol. The results were amazing and showed a significant change in the participants' bodies.

When people sleep, their heart rate usually drops. However, with the combination of alcohol and the reduced oxygen levels on the plane, the average heart rate increased to 88 beats per minute. This could potentially lead to serious health complications, experts warn.

Cardiological concerns regarding alcohol consumption

The cardiologist Sabine Genth-Zotz, who commented in an interview, referred to possible consequences of the increased heart rate such as increased blood pressure, cardiac arrhythmias and even strokes. These effects are particularly concerning because they can also affect young and healthy people if they consume alcohol on an airplane.

The study was conducted by PD Dr. Eva-Maria Elmenhorst, who points out that larger amounts of alcohol could further increase the risks, especially among older people or passengers with existing health problems. This raises the important question of how airlines should adapt their service when it comes to alcoholic beverages.

DLR researchers advocate serious consideration of restricting access to alcohol on aircraft to minimize health risks. Some experts, like Dr. Genth-Zotz, however, are of the opinion that the responsibility ultimately lies with the passenger and that awareness should be created about the risks of alcohol consumption in flight.

At a time when more and more people are considering flying as part of their lifestyle, it is important to be aware of the health effects of alcohol in this environment. Awareness of such risks should not be underestimated as it has a potential impact on the safety and well-being of all passengers.