Cancer prevention

Cancer prevention

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Cancer is one of the leading causes of line of duty deaths among current and retired Firefighters.  As such, January is designated as Firefighter Cancer Awareness Month.  Cancer is defined as a medical illness in which cells within the body uncontrollably multiply and rapidly grow, overtaking healthy cells and tissues.  This can happen anywhere within the human body.  Firefighters are at a significantly higher risk of developing cancer.  A study completed by the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) found that Firefighters have a 9% greater chance of being diagnosed with cancer and a 14% greater chance of dying from cancer when compared to the general public.  Thus, there is a direct correlation between the work environment of Firefighters and numerous cancer diagnoses. 


Causes of Firefighter Cancer

  • Exposure to chemicals and industrial and environmental toxins (arsenic, aromatic amines, asbestos, benzene, diesel exhaust, and PCBs)
  • Exposure to various viruses including hepatitis B
  • Decreased sleep
  • Poor nutrition
  • Increased sun exposure

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Despite higher exposure rates, there are things you can do to limit your risk of exposure to carcinogens.  The IAFF has developed the “Clean Cab Concept” to further bring awareness to cancer prevention.  This initiative identifies that the cab of the fire truck should be kept free of any contaminated SCBA, PPE, and tools.  After any equipment or bunker gear has been exposed to potential carcinogens, it should be stored in specific compartments of the truck until it can be properly decontaminated.  Once decontaminated, it should then be replaced to its appropriate clean location.  The same concept should be applied to the firehouse.  No contaminated clothing, SCBA, PPE, or equipment should be in the living quarters of the firehouse. 

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In addition to environmental exposures from work, lack of sleep is another controllable risk factor for cancer.  Many Tactical Athletes do not receive the appropriate amount of sleep.  When the body does not receive 7-9 hours of sleep within a 24-hour time period, it starts to experience sleep deprivation and begins to function in an impaired state.  Sleep deprivation is a known carcinogen, in which lack of sleep decreases immune system function and prevents the body from healing.  With a decreased immune system response, the body has a harder time fighting off infection and free radicals, which may cause cancer.  Additionally, when we sleep, the body heals itself; with a lack of sleep, you are depriving your body of this ability. 

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Maintaining a healthy, balanced diet can further help to prevent cancer.  Foods rich in antioxidants help to fight the free radicals that are known to cause cancer.  Antioxidants are identified as vitamins A, C, and E, and selenium.  Many fruits and vegetables contain these cancer fighting nutrients.  As a general rule, try to consume a variety of colorful foods, such as bright oranges, deep pink/red, and dark green.  Eggs, beans, lean meats, and fish are also a good source of antioxidants.  Eating a variety of different fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins helps to ensure that your diet contains the recommended daily values of all micronutrients. 

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Additional tips to prevent cancer

  • Wash your uniform and bunker gear after fires or exposure to chemicals
  • Shower after these exposures to wash away any toxins that penetrated bunker gear or clothing
  • Wear SCBA during overhaul
  • Regularly exercise
  • Practice sun safety
  • Get vaccinated (hepatitis B and HPV)
  • Don’t smoke and avoid all forms of tobacco
  • Avoid excess alcohol consumption

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There is not usually just one risk factor that can lead to cancer, but a complex interaction of multiple risk factors.  As a Firefighter, you cannot control every exposure to potentially cancer-causing agents.  However, there are some risk factors that you can control.  If you believe that you are showing signs or symptoms of cancer, do not wait to get assessed by a medical professional. 


By:  J. Scott, DPT, ATC, CSCS, TSAC-F


Sources: Harvard health, Mayo Clinic, Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, IAFF 

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