Blood clotting not activated on long haul flights

Reported by Susan Aldridge, PhD, medical journalist

New research simulating conditions on a long flight show no increase in blood clotting risk in healthy individuals.
There has been much concern in recent years over the potential risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) among people taking long flights. Clots formed in the leg can be dangerous if they break off and travel to the lungs, creating a pulmonary embolism.

Researchers at the University of Leicester, England, now report a new study where healthy individuals were placed in lab conditions simulating that of a long haul flight. They measured blood markers of clotting in the 73 healthy individuals to see how low oxygen and reduced cabin pressure affected these. No problems were seen which suggests that for the healthy individual, DVT should not be too much of a concern when undertaking a long flight. But it's probably still a good idea to keep well hydrated and keep your circulation going with simple exercises. Those at risk of blood clots might want to seek medical advice over how to prevent DVT on a long journey.

Source
Journal of the American Medical Association 17th May 2006 Volume 295 pages 2251-226