Postural Sway and Exposure to Jet Propulsion Fuel 8 Among US Air Force Personnel

Objective: To determine whether short-term jet propulsion fuel 8 (JP-8) exposure is associated with balance measurements in JP-8-exposed air force personnel. Methods: As part of a larger neuroepidemiology study, balance tasks were completed by JP-8 exposed individuals (n = 37). Short-term JP-8 exposure was measured using personal breathing zone levels and urinary biomarkers. Multivariate linear regression analyses were conducted to examine the relationship between workday JP-8 exposure and postural sway. Results: Balance control decreased as the task became more challenging. Workday exposure to JP-8, measured by either personal air or urinary metabolite levels, was not significantly related to postural sway. Increases in workday postural sway were associated with demographic variables, including younger age, being a current smoker, and higher body mass index. Conclusion: Results suggest that short-term workday JP-8 exposure does not significantly contribute to diminished balance control.