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Published online 16 May 2006 | Nature | doi:10.1038/news060515-7
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What causes blood clots on long-haul flights?
Scientists debate role of air pressure in deep vein thrombosis.
A study of the effects of low oxygen levels on 'economy class syndrome' has re-opened the debate over how long-haul flights increase passengers' risks of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), the formation of potentially fatal blood clots.
Although it is well known that restricting blood flow by sitting immobile for long periods can increase the risk of such clots, some researchers have proposed that there may be other factors on flights that contribute to the risk.
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