- [Voiceover] For frequent fliers out there,

you might wanna listen up.

Studies suggest that frequent fliers, like pilots,

have more than double the risk of developing melanoma

compared to the general population.

Plane windows do not sufficiently block

the harmful UV rays,

which are more powerful at higher altitudes.

About a third of your taste buds go numb during flight.

The dry air evaporates nasal mucus,

and membranes become swollen from cabin pressurization,

making it more difficult to detect food scents

needed for taste.

At cruising altitudes your blood absorbs

less oxygen, which may cause sleepiness,

dizziness, fatigue, and a lack of mental sharpness.

The decreased air pressure on the plane

also causes gas to expand in your body,

which can lead to discomfort.

Sitting for a very long time decreases blood flow

and causes blood to pool in your lower extremities.

This causes your muscles to stiffen,

and increases the risk of blood clots.

Pick your legs up and walk around a bit.

There's a risk of altitude induced decompression

sickness in flight.

One symptom is joint pain, or the bends.

If you've gone scuba diving your risk is increased,

and you should wait at least 24 hours after a dive

to take a flight.

Crossing two or more time zones can give you jet lag,

as it takes your brain longer to catch

onto the new pattern of day and night.

The effects are less prominent when flying east to west

because you're gaining day light.

You're exposed to cosmic radiation at higher altitudes.

Some studies suggest that frequent fliers,

like pilots or flight attendants,

have a higher risk of getting cancer due to radiation.

But don't worry, you're probably more likely

to get into a plane crash than cancer from that radiation.

("Pluck and Blow")