Watan-A U.S. study has suggested that firefighters may be at a higher risk of developing glioma brain tumors due to exposure to certain chemicals encountered during their work.
Researchers from Yale University provided the first evidence linking firefighting to an increased likelihood of brain cancer due to genetic mutations caused by exposure to fire-related chemicals. Their findings were published Monday in Cancer, a journal of the American Cancer Society.
Glioma and Firefighter Risk
Gliomas are brain tumors that originate from glial cells, which support the central nervous system. These tumors range from slow-growing to highly aggressive forms, such as glioblastoma. Treatment options—including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation—depend on the tumor’s type, grade, and spread.
The study focused on genetic mutations linked to exposure to haloalkanes, a group of compounds used in firefighting agents, flame retardants, and fire extinguishers.
Key Findings of the Study
- Firefighters diagnosed with glioma were more likely to have specific genetic mutations previously linked to haloalkane exposure.
- The study included 35 glioma patients, 17 of whom were firefighters, while the remaining 18 had no history in the profession.
- Firefighters had a higher likelihood of developing haloalkane-associated mutations, with risks increasing for those with longer careers in firefighting.
- Some non-firefighters in the study also had similar mutations—these individuals worked in jobs with haloalkane exposure, such as automotive painting and machine maintenance.
Need for Stronger Safety Measures
The research team emphasized the urgent need for additional protective measures to shield firefighters from long-term chemical exposure. They suggested:
- Enhancing occupational safety standards, including increased use of protective gear.
- Reducing reliance on haloalkane-containing materials in firefighting equipment.
The researchers also stressed the importance of larger studies involving a broader range of professions to confirm these findings and identify other occupations at similar risk.
Understanding the connection between chemical exposure and genetic mutations could help public health authorities develop more effective policies to reduce occupational cancer risks in high-risk jobs.
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