Firefighters have an increased risk of 56% for Melanoma!

Firefighters have an increased risk of 56% for Melanoma due to exposures in fires, stations, and shift work.

Direct exposures are linked to this:

1) Polubrominated Diphenyl Ethers (PBDEs) - found in polyurethane foam in furniture, electronics, plastics, and flame retardants.  During a house fire, firefighters are exposed to these PBDEs.

2) Benzene- found in many household building materials, such as PVC pipe, PVC siding.  During a house fire, firefighters are exposed to benzene.  Benzene is also found in diesel exhaust from the fire station and has been found to off-gas from firefighters' PPE.

3) Shift work.  In 2019-- shift work has been classified as a probable human carcinogen.  The disruption of circadian rhythm and impacts melatonin secretion and production.

Ways to protect yourself:

1.) Wear your SCBA on the fireground. 

2.) Decon with FLAME ASAP after a fire

3.) Use the exhaust extraction system at the fire station.

4.) Get familiar with checking your skin for the usual signs on melanoma.  When melanoma is found at stage 1 survival rate is 99%.  When melanoma is found at stage 4 survival rate is 27%.