Firefighters to Be Studied for Cancer Risk, Including Asbestos

May 27, 2010, 10:30AM. By Gordon Gibb

Washington, DCThe National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) has announced an initiative to study the health risks encountered by firefighters, specifically the various cancers thought to stem from exposure to hazardous chemicals encountered at the fire scene, including asbestos. Asbestos mesothelioma lawsuits could be forthcoming.

NIOSH is teaming up with the United States Fire Administration (USFA) on a study to examine the potential for increased cancer risk associated with exposure to smoke, soot and other contaminants while in the line of duty, according to a joint release from USFA and NIOSH.

Now widely recognized as a carcinogen, asbestos was used decades ago in the construction of wallboard and ceiling tile, as well as in many insulating and fire-retardant materials. White asbestos insulation wrap for pipes was also used in older homes.

Some safety experts say it is better to let asbestos go undisturbed than to attempt to remove it. Undisturbed asbestos fibers pose little risk, but fibers are released when the material is disturbed during renovations or demolitions, substantially increasing the risk to one's health. Asbestos removal and remediation is a highly technical process, carried out only by skilled contractors in controlled conditions.

However, firefighters are not afforded the luxury of careful planning to minimize exposure to potential contaminants. They are routinely exposed to smoke, soot and fumes from fires that contain substances classified by NIOSH as potential occupational carcinogens, or identified by the National Toxicology Program as known human carcinogens or substances reasonably anticipated to be human carcinogens. These may include byproducts of combustion, such as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, as well as contaminants from building products, including asbestos and formaldehyde.

The multi-year USFA-supported NIOSH study will involve more than 18,000 current and retired firefighters. Previous studies have been smaller and involved fewer study participants. The proponents of this larger study are hoping for greater statistical reliability.

"There is a need to have a comprehensive study of the incidence of cancer in the fire service involving objective medical and epidemiological oversight. We have lost too many firefighters from this disease," said USFA Administrator Kelvin J. Cochran in the joint statement. "USFA is pleased to work with NIOSH in this initiative."

The health records of career firefighters from both suburban and large city fire departments will be analyzed to determine what chemicals—including asbestos—may be putting firefighters at risk.