Post-Treatment Effects of Multiple Sclerosis (MS) on the Executive and Memory Functions ofCommercial Pilots in the UAE

Abstract

Individuals with MS often face challenges in cognitive functioning, particularly in demanding occupations such as commercial flying. This study investigates the post-treatment impact of MS on the memory and executive functions of commercial pilots while working under a busy flying roster. The research aims to understand cognitive changes over time and their implications for onboard safety.Data was collected over two and a half years from a single pilot. Standard assessments were used to evaluate the pilot’s executive and memory functions. A two-way ANOVA table was used for statisticalanalysis. The analysis indicates that there is no significant decline in performance over time for the pilot (p = 0.106447, df = 3). However, there are notable variations among memory and executive function tasks (p < 0.001, df = 7), highlighting specific areas of strength. The null hypothesis there is no decline in pilots’ neurocognitive functions, has been accepted. Additionally, the case study outcomes showed improvement in the pilot's executive and memory functions over two and a half years while maintaining stressful long-haul flight rosters. Future research should focus on understanding the factors driving these variations and exploring interventions to address cognitive weaknesses.