New research has confirmed what firefighters have long suspected. Exposure to flames and smoke leaves them with high levels of toxic chemicals in their bodies.
A University of Ottawa researcher studied firefighters in the city at the start of their shift and after they returned from a call.
Jules Blais found levels of a chemical known to cause cancer and genetic damage were, on average, three to five times higher. Blais says the exposure seems to come mostly through the skin.
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His study also looked at the potential for chemicals in the urine to cause genetic damage.
That average was also about four times higher after an action-packed shift.
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He says the research should help fire departments come up with better ways to protect firefighters from contaminants.
Previous long-term studies of firefighters have shown they are prone to some diseases.
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