While firefighters are celebrated for their bravery in saving lives and protecting property, new research has revealed that the nature of their work is also linked to a higher risk of developing certain types of cancer.
Led by Dr Lauren Terrace, an epidemiologist at the American Cancer Society, the study tracked over 470,000 cancer-free firefighters from 1982 over a 36-year period, revealing that long-serving firefighters face health risks extending beyond the immediate dangers of flames and smoke.
When cancer incidence rates among firefighters were compared to those of other men in the study, results showed a 72% higher rate of skin cancer, a 39% increase in kidney cancer, an 8% rise in lung cancer, a 14% increase in prostate cancer, and a 15% rise in colon cancer.
Dr Terrace noted that the significant increase in skin cancer cases may be due to inadequate skin protection during firefighting operations. She suggested that taking preventative measures, such as minimising sun exposure and using protective gear, could help reduce risk.
The researchers also found that the elevated lung cancer risk was present only among firefighters who had served for 30 years or more. The findings support earlier studies that have linked the firefighting profession to heightened cancer risks due to occupational exposures.
