The study, conducted by researchers at the University of Arizona and Arizona State University, analyzed data from the Firefighter Cancer Cohort Study, one of the largest efforts to investigate long-term health risks in the fire service.
The results of this study provide important directions for reducing exposure to chemicals in occupations that already pose significant health risks.
Why PFAS exposure matters to firefighters
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, commonly known as PFAS, are a large group of industrial chemicals that are evaluated for their resistance to heat, water, and oil.
They are widely used in firefighting foams, protective equipment, and numerous consumer products. PFAS are not easily broken down, so they accumulate over time in the environment and in human blood.
Scientific evidence shows a link between PFAS exposure and immune system disruption, hormonal interference, and increased risk of certain cancers.
Firefighters consistently exhibit higher serum PFAS levels than the general population, primarily due to repeated contact with contaminated equipment, smoke, and fire extinguishing materials.
Fire scene practices linked to higher PFAS levels
The study found that daily fireground habits play a large role in determining PFAS exposure.
Handling contaminated turnout gear, storing equipment without proper isolation, and inconsistent decontamination procedures were all associated with elevated PFAS concentrations in firefighters’ blood.
These results suggest that exposure is caused by cumulative contact over years of service rather than from a single incident.
Small operational decisions, such as where equipment is stored or how quickly it is cleaned, can have a long-term impact on the body burden of chemicals.
Demographic and career factors also play a role.
Beyond workplace practices, this study identified demographic and career-related indicators that predict PFAS levels.
Years of service, specific job duties, rank, and specific lifestyle behaviors were all associated with variation in PFAS exposure.
This highlights that chemical exposure is shaped by a combination of occupational obligations and personal factors, reinforcing the need for tailored prevention strategies rather than one-size-fits-all solutions.
Pathways to reducing occupational risks
The findings present opportunities for practical intervention. Improved decontamination protocols, revised equipment handling policies, and updated department guidelines could significantly reduce firefighters’ PFAS exposure.
Importantly, the results of this research have already been shared directly with fire departments, enabling them to translate research insights into immediate action.
By identifying clear predictors of PFAS accumulation, this study supports evidence-based policy changes at the local, state, and federal levels.
As awareness increases, these insights could help protect the health of firefighters while strengthening long-term occupational safety standards across the fire service.
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