A recent study published in the Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine has identified key occupational and demographic factors that contribute to elevated levels of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in U.S. career firefighters. The research, conducted by teams from the University of Arizona and Arizona State University, analyzed data from the Fire Fighter Cancer Cohort Study.
PFAS are synthetic chemicals used for their resistance to water, grease, and stains. They persist in both the environment and human bodies, earning the nickname "forever chemicals." Previous studies have linked PFAS exposure to health issues such as immune dysfunction, certain cancers, and endocrine disruption. Firefighters are particularly at risk due to frequent exposure to hazardous substances during their work.
The study found that fireground practices and departmental protocols play a significant role in determining PFAS serum levels among firefighters. Routines involving contaminated equipment handling and personal protective gear were associated with higher blood concentrations of these chemicals. Demographic variables—including years of service, rank or role within the fire service, and certain personal behaviors—also influenced PFAS levels.
The authors suggest that changes in decontamination procedures, storage practices for gear, and operational policies could help reduce PFAS exposure among firefighters.
Reagan Conner, a public health doctoral student at the University of Arizona’s Mel and Enid Zuckerman College of Public Health, was lead author on the study. The research team collaborated with several fire departments through the Center for Firefighter Health Collaborative Research.
Melissa Furlong, assistant professor at the Zuckerman College of Public Health who co-led the study, stated: "We worked closely with fire service research champions across six states to complete this research, and have already shared the results with them and all the firefighters participating in the study. Our fire service partners are already using this information to plan ways of reducing their PFAS exposure."
Captain Orion Godfrey from Goodyear Fire Department in Arizona also contributed as a co-author. He said: "As a firefighter, I am excited to see the intersection between knowing more about what is hurting us and being able to do something about it. This will help keep firefighters safe so they can go home to their families and the communities they serve. This is a great example of state-funded research having an impact on everyone in Arizona."
The researchers acknowledged support from participating fire departments and volunteers involved in advancing knowledge about occupational exposures to PFAS. Funding for this work came partly from grants provided by the Arizona Board of Regents and FEMA for the Fire Fighter Cancer Cohort Study.
Other contributors included James Hollister, Karen Lutrick, Shawn Beitel, Cynthia Porter, Olivia Healy, Jeff Burgess (all from University of Arizona), Floris Wardenaar (Arizona State University), retired Captain John Gulotta (Tucson Fire Department), and retired Assistant Fire Chief Eric Valliere (Scottsdale Fire Department).
