Understanding fatigue in air search and rescue missions

Physiological, Psychological and Cognitive Impact of Air Search and Rescue Missions

Observational Faculdade de Motricidade Humana · NCT06253026

This study looks at how 15 days of air search and rescue missions affect the physical and mental health of Portuguese Air Force crews, including their fitness, sleep, and overall well-being.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment60 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorFaculdade de Motricidade Humana Academic / other
Locations1 site (Lisbon)
Trial IDNCT06253026 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to evaluate the physiological, psychological, and cognitive effects of 15 consecutive days of air search and rescue missions on Portuguese Air Force crews. It will assess body composition, cardiorespiratory fitness, and strength levels, while also examining the impacts of deployments on sleep quality, nutrition, and overall lifestyle. Participants will undergo evaluations at multiple time points: after a holiday period, before missions, during missions, upon return, and again after twelve months. The study seeks to identify both immediate and cumulative effects of successive deployments on crew members.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are active members of the Portuguese Air Force who are approved for search and rescue missions.

Not a fit: Patients who are not part of the Air Force or those not involved in search and rescue missions may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved strategies for managing fatigue and enhancing the performance and well-being of air force personnel.

How similar studies have performed: While studies on fatigue in military settings exist, this specific approach focusing on air search and rescue missions is relatively novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Air Force Military

For intervention group

* Approved for search and rescue missions by the clinical staff

Where this trial is running

Lisbon

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Fatigue Syndrome, ChronicFatigueStrengthSleep patternCognition
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.