The study will need to look at passengers before they get on an airplane and after they get off to see who actually develops blood clots. A first study will look at the incidence of blood clots in passengers, while another will try to determine whether being in an airplane provides specific risk factors, such as changes in cabin pressure and oxygen levels. Experts are still unsure how long people must stay still to be at risk, although age, obesity, smoking, pregnancy, cancer, recent surgery, hormone therapy or a history of the disease are risk factors. The most effective preventive measure is exercising the feet and legs at your seat while flying to improve circulation, experts agreed. Drinking plenty of water and avoiding alcohol were also recommended.
Experts disagree over whether taking aspirin helps.
Recent deaths linked to deep vein thrombosis have sparked class-action lawsuits against major international airlines. An Australian law firm has prepared compensation claims against six airlines for about 1,000 people who claim to have suffered deep vein thrombosis while on flights. Copyright 2001 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.