New report shows airlines have case to answer on DVT, says Euro-MP

3.14.53pm GMT Mon 13th Mar 2006

The Liberal Democrat MEP Liz Lynne today welcomed a new report

highlighting the link between long haul air travel and DVT. A Lancet study by Dutch researchers found chemicals indicating clotting in 71 volunteers were higher during eight hours on a flight than in the cinema, suggesting low air pressure and oxygen levels on a flight may play a role.

DVT is a condition in which a blood clot is formed in the calf, which can then travel to the lungs or the brain causing adverse health effects, and even death. Both long and short-haul air travel has been linked with DVT due to cramped conditions and a decreased level of oxygen, among other factors.

Liz Lynne commented today,

"This report shows yet again that airlines should be responsible for the health of their passengers and that there is a need for better information campaigns directed at airlines, passengers and doctors alike"

"The medical condition Deep Vein Thrombosis has been known for many years, yet in their mad rush to squeeze as many people into aeroplanes as possible, airlines have been happy to keep people in the dark.

Liz Lynne has suffered three deep vein thromboses (blood clots in the lower leg) in recent years - two after relatively short flights. In the European Parliament she has called for more EU funds to be spent on researching the condition and for airlines to include advice on avoiding DVT on flights.

"One Heathrow passenger a month has been dying from the condition and it is time the airlines took all practical steps to ensure such risks are minimised," she said.

ENDS

Notes to editors

Main Story and links to the report:

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/health/4788774.stm