Scientists say astronauts are at high risk of developing mutations that can lead to the development of cancer and heart disease. Probably their presence is associated with space flights, according to Newswise..

A team of researchers collected blood samples from NASA astronauts who flew into space on shuttles between 1998 and 2001.. They found DNA mutations, known as somatic mutations, in the hematopoietic system (hematopoietic stem cells) in all 14 astronauts..

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As a result, scientists came to the conclusion that space flights may be associated with these mutations.. The researchers also stressed the importance of continuous blood screening in astronauts throughout their careers and beyond retirement..

Somatic mutations are mutations that occur after a person is conceived and in cells other than sperm or eggs, meaning they cannot be passed on to offspring.. The mutations that scientists have identified are characterized by an overrepresentation of blood cells derived from one clone, this process is called clonal hematopoiesis (CH).

These mutations can be caused by environmental factors such as ultraviolet radiation or exposure to certain chemicals, and they can also be the result of cancer chemotherapy.. Although CG is not necessarily a sign of disease, it is associated with a higher risk of heart disease and cancer..

“Astronauts work in extreme conditions where many factors can lead to somatic mutations, primarily cosmic radiation, which means that there is a risk that these mutations can develop into clonal hematopoiesis.. Given the growing interest in both commercial spaceflight and deep space exploration, as well as the potential health risks from exposure to various harmful factors that are associated with repeated or long-term exploration space missions, such as Mars, we decided to study somatic mutations retrospectively..

It is noted that the astronauts whose blood samples were studied during the study flew into space for a short time (on average, 12 days).. Their average age was 42 years, 85% were men, six made their first flight.. Researchers collected whole blood samples from astronauts 10 days before the flight and on the day of landing, and white blood cells only three days after landing.. Samples were stored at -80 degrees Celsius for approximately 20 years.

Important! This publication is based on the latest and current scientific research in the field of medicine and is for general information purposes only.. Publication cannot be the basis for making any diagnoses. If you are ill or need a diagnosis, see your doctor!