Characterization of Chilean Firefighters in terms of cancer risk factors: a pilot study

Abstract

Firefighters (FF) are exposed to chemicals, some of them carcinogens. Recently, the International Agency for Research on Cancer has classified the FF occupation on Group 1, known to be carcinogenic to humans. In Chile, FF activity is mostly a volunteer- based occupation. The objective of this study was to characterize FFs from the Fire Department of Talcahuano, Chile in regards with cancer risk factors. A descriptive observational study was performed. Characterization of cancer risk factors (modifiable and non-modifiable) was determined by applying to participants an on-line self-administered survey that included demographics, occupational and safety health, and FF work-related questions. Descriptive statistics parameters and associations were established. A total of 364 FFs (33 women and 330 men) participated of the study. FF age range and mean were 18-72, and 36.3 years old, respectively. 30 % of FFs were smokers, 56 % drinkers, and 36.5 % sedentary. Also, 2.7 % of participants had been diagnosed with cancer. 31.5 % of formally employed FFs declared to be exposed to chemicals at the workplace. Of these, 26 % have also experienced exposures to at least one carcinogen agent. Additionally, 51.1 % of FFs experienced at least one acute symptom associated with fire-controlling activities. 87.1 % of FFs adhered to established gear decontamination and cleaning protocols. This pilot study characterized FFs in terms of modifiable and non-modifiable cancer risk factors, along with occupational exposures to chemicals in their formal employments. Finally, more research is needed in order to assess multiple cancer risk factors, including combined occupational exposures among volunteer FFs.

Keywords

• Firefighter
• Cancer risk
• Occupational exposure
• Chile