| Abstrakt: |
INTRODUCTION: As commercial spaceflight experiences unprecedented growth, it is imperative to note its increasing inclusivity, particularly in terms of female space traveler participation. With space tourism transitioning from a dream to reality for a broader demographic, delving into women's health for the spaceflight paradigm becomes essential. This scoping review consolidates current literature on women's health challenges in commercial space endeavors, pinpointing areas that need clarity. The synthesis will aid primary care providers in executing informed medical risk evaluations. METHODS: In alignment with objectives set by the women's health team, a structured search strategy was defined. The focal points of our investigation included areas of reproductive health, hormonal dynamics, and prevalent gynecological conditions such as abnormal uterine bleeding, ovarian torsion, ectopic pregnancy as well other concerns the effect of radiation in space. A search was performed across PubMed, EMBASE, CINAHL, PSYCINFO, and Web of Science for the considered literature extended from 2000 to 2023. Covidence software was used for abstract screening and full text reviews. A rigorous dualreview protocol was employed to assess each article's suitability, with senior members resolving instances of discrepancy. The main goal is to identify studies pertaining to commercial spaceflights. RESULTS: Our database search yielded 4,416 potential articles. After screening, a set of articles was chosen for in-depth analysis. The significant portion of the literature pertaining directly to women's health in space conditions was grounded in animal models, while direct data from professional female astronauts was markedly limited or dated. Further, majority of the studies did not stratify and compare participants in terms of sex differences in hormone sensitive tissues. Nonetheless, based on animal models space- flight may impact reproductive health. DISCUSSION: This comprehensive scoping review illuminates the current knowledge regarding women's health in relation to commercial spaceflight, and the limitations on available knowledge due to fewer female participants in spaceflight. It underscores the importance of understanding women's health issues in the unique environment of space, giving direction to primary care providers. Additionally, there's a pressing need to refine commercial spaceflight medical screening procedures and establish evidence-driven safety standards. Learning Objectives 1. Understand the unique women's health challenges and conditions as they relate to commercial spaceflight, with a focus on reproductive endocrinology, hormonal dynamics, pregnancy, prevalent gynecological conditions, and gynecologic cancer risk. 2. Analyze the current state of literature on women's health in the context of space travel, emphasizing the importance of addressing the gap in knowledge. 3. Recognize the significance of refining commercial spaceflight medical screening procedures to encompass women's health specifics and the establishment of evidence-driven safety standards. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] |
