The World Health Organisation (WHO) has proposed a two-year US $11 million study to determine whether there is a link between air travel and fatal blood clots -- a condition known as the 'economy class syndrome.' After a preliminary review, WHO officials want to determine the frequency of blood clots on flights and understand the link with air travel. "Due to the increasing incidences of the 'economy class syndrome', we felt the need to conduct a study," said Derek Yach, WHO's executive director of non-communicable diseases and mental health. While some airlines warn passengers about the risk of blood clotting, the trade group that represents US airlines says there is no proof that flying results in the disorder. "It is a legitimate medical condition, but it is misleading to single it out with aviation," said Michael Wascom of the US Air Transport Association.
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