Aerotoxic syndrome, Clinical trials, Modern paints

Available for over a year

Some regular travellers say aircraft are making them ill. It has become known as aerotoxic syndrome and is thought to be caused by the air in passenger cabins becoming contaminated with engine oil. The industry has long denied it's a problem, but pilots and some frequent flyers have reported sickness and chronic fatigue. The Civil Aviation Authority told You and Yours that a recent study concluded that the air quality on flights was similar or better than that in normal indoor environments, but one airline has announced it will fit air filters to its planes to deal with unusual smells and fumes in the cabin, which it admits can have short term effects on health. You and Yours has heard that some NHS patients who volunteer to take part in clinical drugs trials are then finding it difficult to get travel insurance. A senior clinician has told us that some of her patients are in effect being penalised by insurance companies, for helping with medical research. We hear from one patient whose travel insurance premiums soared after he decided to take part in a trial and we examine if it is fair for insurers to hike up premiums, when experts say the actual risk to patients is very small. Some modern paints can, it's claimed, do more than just add colour to your home. A new manufacturing plant in the north east of England is making paints which promise to repel stains, stop bacteria and even make your rooms look bigger. We go behind the scenes at the factory and get an insight into the market for paint. Producer: Jonathan Hallewell Presenter: Winifred Robinson.