How many of us marvelled at the sheer guts of the firefighters when we saw them tackling the horrific blaze that engulfed the Grenfell Tower flats in London last year?
Despite the deadly heat and smoke, these heroes plunged into the inferno again and again. They rescued scores of people from the charred and blistered building.
That’s what these amazingly courageous people do – they save lives.
A hidden cancer risk
It’s therefore shocking to learn that research by the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan) highlights a serious risk to firefighters’ health.
The study shows that dangerous chemicals can cling to firefighters’ clothing and equipment long after a fire ends. Researchers described the levels as “alarmingly high”.
The research also found that firefighters were more likely to absorb cancer-causing gases through their skin than by inhaling them. These gases can lead to several forms of cancer, including lung cancer.
Findings from the research
Researchers published the study in the prestigious Scientific Reports journal. The report states that “dangerously high levels of harmful chemicals remain on protective gear following exposure to smoke”.
The study also found a worrying pattern in cancer deaths. Among firefighters aged 75 or under, deaths from cancer were up to three times higher than in the general population.
As expected, media outlets across the UK widely reported these alarming findings.
Evidence from other countries
The UCLan research supports earlier studies from other countries. Several investigations in the USA and five Nordic nations found similar results.
These studies also reported higher cancer rates among firefighters compared with the general population.
Anna Stec, professor of fire chemistry and toxicity at UCLan, said: “We have found that contaminated clothing and equipment is causing firefighters to be exposed to alarmingly high amounts of dangerous chemicals, which puts them at a greater risk of cancer.“
According to the university, the cancer risk for UK firefighters is extremely high. The risk linked to absorbing toxic chemicals through the skin is up to 350 times above the level that would trigger government intervention in the USA.
Lack of monitoring in the UK
The university also highlighted another concern. Authorities in the UK do not officially monitor the long-term health effects of exposure to toxic gases among firefighters.
This lack of monitoring exists even though cancer deaths among firefighters have risen steadily since the 1970s.
In contrast, both the USA and Canada recognise certain cancers as “occupational diseases” among firefighters. Authorities in those countries also measure the number of fire-related toxins firefighters encounter.
Problems with protective gear cleaning
The UCLan research team also examined how firefighters clean their protective equipment in the UK.
They found that current cleaning methods are not carried out effectively. As a result, toxins remain on the gear for longer periods. This increases the time firefighters’ skin stays exposed to harmful chemicals.
Professor Stec said: “The UK must do more to tackle the growing issue of cancer in firefighters.”
Calls for action
The Fire Brigades Union described the findings as “shocking”. The union is urging greater awareness of contaminants and the risks they pose.
It is also calling for tougher measures to ensure that firefighters’ clothing and equipment are cleaned properly and regularly.
A reminder of the dangers of smoke
Many people believe they already understand the dangers linked to chemicals in smoke. Cigarette smoke and other tobacco products often dominate this discussion.
However, this research shows just how persistent and deadly these toxic substances can be.
These brave men and women already put their lives on the line to protect others. Surely we owe it to them to make sure this issue is sorted out immediately?