Advances on oxidative stress injury of aircrew and protective measures

Objective To review the research advances related to oxidative stress injury of aircrew and the protective measures. Literature resource and selection Relevant articles and monographs published in China and abroad. Literature quotation One hundred and eight published references (ninety-nine papers, seven monographs, one report and one dissertation) were cited. Literature synthesis The research advances related to oxidative stress injury of aircrew and the protective measures were reviewed. The main oxidative stress inducing factors in flight occupation are arranged as follows: hypobaric hypoxia and inhalation of oxygen, positive acceleration stress (+ Gz), electromagnetic radiation, chemical toxics, psychological stress, sleep biorhythm disorder, flight fatigue, etc. Based on the epidemic investigation of the unhealthy living style related to oxidative stress, and induced diseases or syndromes, as well as the detection of antioxidative ability, results indicate the obvious oxidative stress injury on aircrew. At present, comprehensive measures have been adopted to reduce oxidative stress injury of aircrew, such as protective equipment, aviation physiological training, healthy recuperation, rational dietary system and taking nutrient supplements, rational use of Chinese herbal medicine with the pharmacological effects of antioxidative ability and so on. Conclusions Many professional stress factors can induce oxidative stress injury of aircrew. The regular monitoring of oxidative stress status and comprehensive medical protective measures should be adopted for enhancing aircrew's antioxidave ability, promoting their working capacity and maintaining health. Key words: Oxidative stress; Anoxia; Acceleration; Protective devices; Rehabilitation; Pretective agents; Aircrews