The Effects of Acceleration Forces on Cognitive Functions

Abstract

High G forces affect cognitive functions. Withstanding to the negative effects of G forces is positively correlated with pilots’ readiness and countermeasures that were taken against. Therefore, factors that decrease resistance to G-forces will increase G induced cognitive impairment. Changes in blood pressure affect the cerebral perfusion and disrupt high cortical functions. We investigated the negative effects of acceleration forces on cognitive functions via Time Wall Psychometric Tests which were applied to pilots before and after Human Centrifuge Training. Positive correlation of pilot’s height with PsAc (Post Training Accuracy) (P˂0.05), PsMAP (Post-Training Mean Arterial Pressure) with pilot’s ages (P˂0.05) and flight times (P˂0.01) were showed in our study. PsMAP values were lower than Pre-Training Mean Arterial Pressure values in younger aged (P˂0.001) and lower flight hour pilots (P˂0.01). PsAc values were higher than PrAc (Pre-Training) values within the younger aged pilots’ group (P˂0.05). Between age’s groups analyzes showed that, PsAc values of older aged group were found to be lower than younger aged group (P˂0.05). PsAc values were more affected in lower flight hour and taller pilots’ group (P > 0.05). In our study, cognitive functions are less affected in older aged and more experienced pilots. Height was considered to influence G tolerance but provided small contributions. We concluded that cardiovascular changes are held responsible for the cognitive dysfunctions caused by +Gz exposure. Increased pilot’s ability to recognize of acceleration forces and knowing how to cope with it, results in increased adaptation to G forces over the years.