A flight attendant's breast cancer has been recognized as an occupational disease, a first in France.

For the first time, a French court has recognized a flight attendant's breast cancer as an occupational disease. The decision, handed down on Tuesday, August 25th by the social division of the Bayonne court, could set a precedent and encourage other flight crew members to take similar action.

Now 59 years old and in remission, Sophie Lainault worked for Air France from 1989 to 2019, first as a flight attendant and then as a cabin manager. During her career, she accumulated more than 12,600 flight hours as well as a large number of night shifts. To establish the occupational origin of her illness, the courts considered, among other factors, night work, exposure to ionizing and cosmic radiation, and passive smoking.

Recognition obtained outside the usual channels

Breast cancer is not listed in the official tables of occupational diseases applicable to flight crew. Its recognition therefore requires direct proof of a link between the disease and working conditions. Several occupational exposures have already been associated with this cancer in cases involving, among others, nurses, factory workers, and security guards. According to Sophie Lainault's lawyer, however, this is the first case in France for a flight attendant.

This decision particularly highlights the risks to which flight crews can be exposed over several decades. Repeated flights at high altitudes increase exposure to cosmic radiation, while irregular schedules and night work can permanently disrupt biological rhythms. In this case, these various factors were considered as a whole.

An administrative process that is often long and complex

When an illness is not listed in a schedule of occupational diseases, the procedure can be particularly demanding. The employee must first obtain a medical certificate establishing a possible link between their health condition and their work. A declaration must then be sent to the relevant social security organization, accompanied by the necessary medical and professional supporting documents.

The CPAM (Primary Health Insurance Fund) or the MSA (Agricultural Social Mutual Fund) then examines the circumstances of the exposure, may send questionnaires to the employee and the employer, and, if necessary, conduct an investigation. The employer may raise objections or contest the decision. In case of refusal, the insured person also has legal recourse, which may lead to the case being brought before the courts.

Recognition of her condition entitles her to specific support, potentially more favorable daily allowances, and compensation for any lasting effects. Beyond her personal situation, Sophie Lainault now hopes that her struggle will facilitate the process for other women facing illnesses that may be linked to their careers in aviation.