A recent study conducted in Germany has garnered significant attention due to its intriguing findings. Although limited in scope, with only 48 participants aged 18-40, the study sheds light on the impact of alcohol consumption during air travel.
Key findings:
- Blood oxygen levels: Passengers who consumed two drinks and fell asleep in a pressurized cabin experienced a significant drop in blood oxygen levels, according to the study.
On average, their levels plummeted to 85%. In contrast, those at sea level maintained a healthier 95% blood oxygen level, well within normal parameters. Doctors say it is normal to see oxygen saturation drop to around 90% when flying, but losing that extra 5% as the study participants did could be concerning. - Heart rates: Participants who drank alcohol while in a pressurized environment had an average heart rate of nearly 88 beats per minute. Those who consumed alcohol at sea level averaged 77 beats per minute.
Implications:
The study concludes that drinking on a plane before falling asleep can lead to decreased blood oxygen levels and increased heart rates. While young, healthy individuals are likely not at serious risk, passengers with underlying cardiorespiratory conditions should exercise caution.
Expert opinion:
Dr. Tara Narula, a medical contributor for NBC News, commented on the study during a segment on “Today”:
“The researchers say that maybe airlines should be restricting or pulling back on serving alcohol,” Narula said. “I’m not sure that is going to happen, but I do think passengers can certainly be aware and take the necessary precautions. I will say, people have been drinking on airplanes for a long time.”
Conclusion:
The German scientists behind the experiment expressed surprise at the findings. They said blood oxygen levels approaching these abnormal ranges found in the study could potentially compromise the delivery of oxygen to vital organs during air travel.
The study ended with this controversial “statement of significance.”
“Our findings strongly suggest that the inflight consumption of alcoholic beverages should be restricted,” the study said.
The study and Narula suggest passengers, especially those with pre-existing health conditions, should make informed decisions regarding alcohol consumption on planes.
